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Xperi Highlights Latest DTS Products & Technology[teaser]Several DTS enabled devices are now on display at CES 2018.[/teaser] Xperi has announced a wide range of DTS products and technologies for 2018 from a variety of partners. The current and upcoming lineup includes smart speakers, sound bars, receivers, 4K TVs, and more from companies like Amazon, Denon, Hisense, LG, Onkyo, Pioneer, Sony, and SVS. "We are proud to highlight the latest updates and partner implementation progress across all of our brands and technologies," said Jon Kirchner, CEO, Xperi. "In 2018, Xperi will continue to innovate and expand its reach through DTS, FotoNation, HD Radio and Invensas, and deliver on our promise to enable extraordinary experiences for people around the world." DTS products at CES incorporate various DTS technologies, including DTS Virtual:X, DTS:X, DTS-HD, and DTS Play-Fi. Here's a full list of new DTS-enabled devices per Xperi: – Phorus PS10 DTS Play-Fi smart speaker with Amazon Alexa functionality - Creative Labs X5 sound bar with DTS:X technology - Denon A/V receivers with DTS:X and DTS Virtual:X technology - Emotiva RMC-1 A/V processor with DTS:X technology - Hisense HS512 sound bar with DTS:X technology - LG 2018 UHD and full HD TVs with DTS-HD codec - LG SK6Y sound bar with DTS Virtual:X technology - Marantz A/V receivers with DTS:X and DTS Virtual:X technology - Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2-channel sound bar system with DTS:X technology - Nakamichi Shockwafe Elite 7.2-channel sound bar with DTS:X technology - Onkyo 2018 A/V receivers with DTS:X and DTS Play-Fi (Note: DTS Play-Fi technology in select models) - Pioneer and Pioneer Elite 2018 A/V receivers with DTS:X and DTS Play-Fi (Note: DTS Play-Fi technology in select models) - Sony 2018 A/V receivers with DTS:X - Sony HT-ST5000 sound bar with DTS:X - Soundcast VG10 wireless outdoor speaker with DTS Play-Fi - SVS Prime Wireless speaker system and Prime Wireless SoundBase with DTS Play-Fi Source: DTSPosted Wed Jan 10, 2018 at 03:50 PM PST by: -
Sony Announces 2018 Sound Bar Lineup, Including Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Models[teaser]Several upcoming sound bar models have been detailed.[/teaser] Sony has revealed the latest additions to its sound bar lineup. The 2018 collection includes the HT‑Z9F Dolby Atmos Sound Bar, the HT-X9000F Dolby Atmos sound bar, and the HT-S200F sound bar. "At Sony, we are committed to creating optimal listening and viewing experiences for our consumers as well as a stunning design," said Mike Fasulo, President and COO of Sony Electronics, North America. "Our new HT-Z9F and HT-X9000F Dolby Atmos sound bars with virtual three-dimensional sound enables consumers be surrounded by a truly impressive TV experience while looking great in your living room." The HT‑Z9F is set to be the world's first 3.1 channel Dolby Atmos sound bar. Meanwhile, the HT-X9000F is a 2.1 channel Dolby Atmos sound bar. Both devices use Sony's new Virtual Surround Engine to simulate "vertical" sound in Dolby Atmos or DTS:X tracks without in-ceiling speakers or up-firing drivers. In addition, the HT-Z9F features S-Force PRO Front Surround technology to further enhance existing surround sound, and includes a "Vertical S." button to up-mix 2 channel stereo content to up to 7.1.2 channels. Likewise, customers can also opt to add a pair of wireless SA-Z9R rear speakers. Both models provide 4K HDR10 and Dolby Vision passthrough as well. "Dolby continues to execute on its mission to bring Dolby Atmos to more people, in more places, through more form factors," said Giles Baker, SVP, Consumer Entertainment Group, Dolby Laboratories. "With the launch of these new Dolby Atmos sound bars, we’re bringing immersive, lifelike sound to even more of Sony’s lineup." And beyond Dolby Atmos models, Sony also announced its new compact 2.1 channel HT-S200F sound bar. The device features a built-in sub-woofer, support for Dolby Audio, and S-Force PRO Surround Sound virtual surround tech. Sony's HT-Z9F is set to launch in Spring 2018 for an MSRP of $899.99. In addition, the HT-X9000F will release in Spring for an MSRP of $599.99. Pricing for the HT-S200F has not been announced yet, but the sound bar is also expected to arrive in Spring 2018. Sources: Sony 1, Sony 2Posted Wed Jan 10, 2018 at 12:45 PM PST by: -
'Murder on the Orient Express' Headed for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]Kenneth Branagh's Agatha Christie mystery rolls onto both formats in February. [/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox says 'Murder on the Orient Express' will be available on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray on February 27. Kenneth Branagh directs and leads an all-star cast, including Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Penélope Cruz, Judi Dench and Leslie Odom, Jr., in this stylish, suspenseful and thrilling mystery based on the best selling novel by Agatha Christie. Everyone's a suspect when a murder is committed on a lavish train ride, and a brilliant detective must race against time to solve the puzzle before the killer strikes again. Murder on the Orient Express is a timeless classic that "will keep audiences guessing" (Peter Debruge, Variety). Each release will feature a lossless 7.1 soundtrack (Dolby Atmos on the 4K UHD) and supplements include: Agatha Christie: An Intimate Portrait; Let's Talk About Hercule Poirot; Unusual Suspects (Part One, Two and Three); The Art of Murder; All Aboard: Filming Murder on the Orient Express; Music of Murder; Deleted Scenes (with and without Commentary by Kenneth Branagh and Michael Green); Director commentary by Kenneth Branagh and Michael Green; Theatrical Trailers; and a Gallery. You can find the latest specs for Murder on the Orient Express linked from our Blu-ray and 4K Release Schedules, where it is indexed under February 27. Order the Blu-ray Order the 4K Blu-rayPosted Wed Jan 10, 2018 at 09:41 AM PST by: -
RIVA Audio Unveils RIVA CENTRAL Wireless Amplifier System[teaser]Legacy devices can now join the RIVA WAND Multi-Room "+" platform.[/teaser] RIVA Audio has announced its latest WAND series component. The new RIVA CENTRAL is designed to add existing audio devices to the company's RIVA WAND Multi-Room "+" ecosystem. "We designed CENTRAL to give you full access to the RIVA WAND ecosystem without limitation to which speaker you listen to. Whether in-ceiling, in-wall or your own legendary speakers, this unique device centralizes the control of all your music," says Rikki Farr, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of RIVA Audio. The RIVA CENTRAL features a robust array of device connections, including analog and optical digital inputs and outputs, and a USB input, allowing users to connect their turntable, USB memory stick, pair of bookshelf/in-wall speakers, or external amplifier/receiver. Once setup, legacy audio devices can then join the RIVA WAND Multi-Room "+" wireless audio ecosystem, with support for streaming third party music services via Ethernet, Wi-Fi, AirPlay, and Bluetooth. In addition, the unit features an optional 55Wrms/channel into 4 ohms class-D amplifier, which can also be deactivated, allowing the CENTRAL to be used as a pre-amp for integration with a connected receiver or multi-channel amp. On that note, users can also power on external amps via an integrated 12V trigger and use the system's line level variable subwoofer output to support a 2.1 system. Outside of the new CENTRAL wireless amplifier, the WAND series also includes the previously released compact ARENA and larger table-top FESTIVAL wireless speakers. The RIVA CENTRAL is set to start shipping in Spring 2018. The unit will feature a black finish and is expected to launch for a suggested retail price of $399. Source: RIVAPosted Wed Jan 10, 2018 at 08:35 AM PST by: -
Axiim Details WiSA-Compliant Link HD Wireless Speaker System for Xbox One & Windows 10 PCs[teaser]The new system is the first wireless home theater solution for Xbox One and Windows 10 computers.[/teaser] Axiim has announced its latest WiSA-compliant wireless entertainment device. The Axiim Link is designed to add wireless surround sound support to Xbox One consoles and Windows 10 PCs. "We are committed to supporting today’s gamers through our invaluable relationships with Xbox and Axiim," said Tony Ostrom, President of WiSA. "Together, we are creating the next generation of high-performance audio solutions that allow gamers to experience gaming at its full potential. It's thrilling for our technology to enter this market and marry Axiim's new product offering with Xbox One X, the world's most powerful console, and Xbox One S." The Link transmitter is a compact, WiSA-compliant multi-channel wireless home theater solution. The device connects to an Xbox One or Windows 10 PC via a USB 2.0 High Speed connection and can then wirelessly transmit up to 7.1 channels of reliable, uncompressed 24bit/96kHz audio from the console or PC to supported wireless speakers. This allows users to enjoy 4K HDR gaming, streaming, Blu-ray discs, and other media with surround sound minus the added hassle and setup of an AV receiver and speaker wires. In addition, the unit features a magnet in the base to easily attach to the back of a TV for simple placement. "Adding the Axiim Link with wireless 7.1 speakers to Xbox One creates the ultimate 4K home theater gaming experience for any living room," said James Hammer, CEO, Axiim. "The combination of wireless audio performance, a convenient, simple setup and reliability is what inspired us to design this product and we’re thrilled to bring Axiim Link as an Xbox-licensed product to both Xbox One S and Xbox One X." Axiim's Link is currently being demoed as part of a complete Link HD Wireless 5.1 Speaker System with an Xbox One X at CES 2018 in Las Vegas. Pricing has not been announced yet, but the Link is set to launch in Q2 2018. Sources: Axiim via PR Web, WiSAPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 06:20 PM PST by: -
Denon & Marantz Reveal First 13.2 Channel Receiver & Pre-Amplifier[teaser]The new audio components can support up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 immersive audio setups.[/teaser] Denon and Marantz have announced their first 13.2 channel audio components. The collection includes the Denon AVR-X8500H receiver and the Marantz AV8805 pre-amplifier. The flagship Denon AVR-X8500H is a 13.2 channel AV receiver with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for up to a 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 speaker configuration with as many as 6 overhead or up-firing speakers. In addition, the unit will also add Auro-3D support for up to 13.2 channels via a future firmware upgrade for no extra cost. And when it comes to video passthrough, the device offers HDCP 2.2 compatibility with support for Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, 21:9 video, 3D, and BT.2020. The full Audyssey Platinum suite of advanced DSP algorithms are integrated as well, along with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 automatic room acoustic correction through an included microphone. Finally, the receiver features HEOS technology with Amazon Alexa capabilities for wireless whole-home audio and voice control. Meanwhile, the Marantz AV8805 is a pre-amplifier with 13.2 channel processing support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D (via firmware update), along with 15.2 channel XLR and RCA outputs. The unit features192kHz/32bit D/A converters for all channels and the latest Marantz proprietary HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module) components. Likewise, 4K/60 Hz full-rate pass-through, 4:4:4 color resolution, HDR, BT.2020, Dolby Vision and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) pass-through are all supported as well. In addition, the pre-amp offers Audyssey MultEQ XT32 automatic room acoustic correction and HEOS technology with Amazon Alexa. An exact release date for the new Denon AVR-X8500H 13.2 Channel Receiver and the Marantz AV8805 13.2 Channel Pre-Amplifier have not been specified, but the Denon AVR-X8500H is set to carry an MSRP of $3,999 and the Marantz AV8805 is set to carry an MSRP of $4,499. Sources: Denon, MarantzPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 02:30 PM PST by: -
Klipsch Announces Heritage Wireless Speakers with Google Assistant[teaser]New wireless speakers have been revealed.[/teaser] Klipsch has announced Google Assistant integration for its upcoming next-gen Heritage Wireless Speakers. The collection will include new editions of the Three and the One. The Three Klipsch Heritage Wireless speaker is a stereo tabletop model with an integrated subwoofer for enhanced bass performance. Meanwhile, The One Klipsch Heritage Wireless is a smaller, semi-portable tabletop model with a rechargeable battery, giving users more freedom on where to place the unit. And with Google Assistant integration, both speakers will allow users to get information, stream music, receive news weather and traffic, create shopping lists, control smart devices, make phone calls, and more. In addition, both models feature a mid-century modern design with real wood veneer, copper switches and knobs, and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. The Three Klipsch Heritage Wireless speaker with Google Assistant is set to launch this fall for an MSRP of $499. Meanwhile, The One with the Google Assistant is expected to arrive in in the spring of 2019 for an MSRP $349). Beyond the new Google Assistant speakers, Klipsch is also currently showcasing several other Heritage and Heritage-inspired products at CES 2018 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. The show's lineup includes the Klipschorn, Cornwall, and Forte speakers; The Sixes wireless speakers; the new Heritage Theater Bar; and the HP-3 headphones. The HP-3 features a semi-open design along with a recessed pair of free-edge 52mm biodynamic drivers that are designed to mimic the imaging qualities of Klipsch Heritage speakers. Each unit is hand-assembled with solid-wood, triple-vented ear cups, angled sheepskin ear pads, and a genuine hand-stitched cowhide headband. Source: KlipschPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 11:30 AM PST by: -
Sony Preps New $30,000 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector[teaser]The company's latest Ultra HD project has been revealed.[/teaser] Sony has announced the newest product in its Life Space UX line. The LSPX-A1 is a 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector with a unique Glass Sound Speaker solution. "We are pleased to launch an exciting new product from Life Space UX. The new 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector LSPX-A1 will transform your living environment with stunning 4K visuals and crystal clear sound while seamlessly blending into your living room with its furniture-like design. Life Space UX will continue to innovate and deliver 'wow' moments like these", says Hiroshi Saito, Deputy Division Head of TS Business Division, who leads the Life Space UX team in Tokyo. The projector uses Sony's 4K SXRD and HDR technology to offer a native 4K resolution (4096 x 2160). Thanks to its ultra short throw capabilities, the device is able to project up to a 120-inch image with 2500 lumens of brightness from just 9.6 inches from the wall. In addition, the unit incorporates a Glass Sound Speaker system that uses Advanced Vertical Drive Technology to create 360 degree audio by vibrating two organic glass tweeters installed on the front legs. A separate subwoofer and three midrange speakers also bolster sound throughout the room, including a center speaker positioned in the rear of the device to reflect sound off the wall. Finally, the projector features a premium design with an engineered marble top, half mirror finished aluminum frame, and wooden shelf. Sony's LSPX-A1 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector is set to launch this Spring with a estimated price of around $30,000. The device will be demoed at Sony Square NYC starting January 23. Source: SonyPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
Sony Expands CS Series Speaker Lineup with New Dolby Atmos Modules[teaser]A new Dolby Atmos-enabled speaker has been detailed.[/teaser] Sony has announced the latest addition to its CS Series speaker collection. The upcoming SS-CSE Dolby Atmos enabled speakers are designed to sit on top of the previously released SS-CS3 floor standing speakers and SS-CS5 bookshelf speakers. Equipped with a compact, angled design and up-firing drivers, the SS-CSE Dolby Atmos enabled speakers are capable of reflecting sound off of a user's ceiling in order to simulate overhead audio effects used on Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks. In addition, the units feature an MDF cabinet, 10cm full range speaker system, a Mica Reinforced Cellular cone, a Maximum Input Power of 100W per channel, and a frequency range of 70Hz-32000Hz. Though the SS-CSE speakers have been designed with Sony's CS Series models in mind, the modules can be placed on top of any existing floor-standing or bookshelf speakers. Likewise, customers can also opt to mount the speakers to a wall for Dolby Atmos or surround sound use. Pricing has not been announced yet, but Sony's SS-CSE Dolby Atmos enabled speakers are set to launch this spring. The units will join the company's existing CS Series of speakers: - SS-CS3 — Floor standing speaker ($199.99 MSRP)- SS-CS5 — Bookshelf Speakers ($149.99 MSRP)- SS-CS8 — Center Channel Speaker, ($149.99 MSRP)- SA-CS9 — Active Subwoofer, ($199.99 MSRP) In addition to the new Dolby Atmos speakers, Sony also recently announced its premium 2018 4K OLED & LCD lineup, a new 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray player, and several new AV receivers, including a 7.2 channel model with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. The company is currently showcasing its latest gear CES 2018 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. Source: SonyPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 09:00 AM PST by: -
NVIDIA Introduces 65-inch 4K HDR "BFGD" Gaming Displays[teaser]PC gaming monitors are getting supersized this summer.[/teaser] NVIDIA has announced its new line of Big Format Gaming Displays, or BFGDs for short. The upcoming big-screen monitors incorporate high-end 65-inch, 4K 120Hz HDR displays, NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, and NVIDIA SHIELD media player capabilities into one immersive gaming and entertainment solution. "PC gamers expect high performance and instant response times, but, until now, they've been largely limited to traditional desktop displays," said Matt Wuebbling, head of GeForce marketing at NVIDIA. "BFGDs change that. With NVIDIA's latest technology built into these new displays, PC gamers can now experience their favorite titles in all the low-latency glory they deserve." NVIDIA BFGDs have been developed in collaboration with hardware partners Acer, ASUS, and HP. The displays feature 65-inch 4K HDR screens with full-array direct backlights, 1,000-nit peak luminance, and support for the DCI-P3 color gamut. In addition, the panels use NVIDIA G-SYNC HDR technology to synchronize the screen's 120Hz refresh rate to that of the game being played, enabling a highly responsive, smooth, tear-free experience. And beyond gaming capabilities, the displays also incorporate the Android TV-based SHIELD for access to streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Video, YouTube, and Hulu, along with Google Assistant support for voice control. A SHIELD remote and game controller are bundled with the monitor as well. Pricing has not been announced yet, but the first BFGDs from Acer, ASUS, and HP are set to launch this summer. Source: NVIDIAPosted Tue Jan 9, 2018 at 08:00 AM PST by:
