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LG Reveals 2018 UHD and FHD TV Lineup[teaser]Several new 4K and 1080p sets have been announced.[/teaser] In advance of the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next week, LG has revealed its upcoming collection of 4K Ultra HD and Full HD TVs. The lineup includes sizes ranging from 32-inches to 86-inches. The new 4K Ultra HD TV slate is comprised of the UK6300, UK6500/70, and UK7700 series. With the exception of the 70-inch UK6500 model, all of the displays use 4K IPS LCD panels for superior viewing angles. Meanwhile, the 70-inch UK6500 uses a 4K VA panel which should offer superior contrast/black levels in exchange for a hit in viewing angles. In addition, the UK7700 series also uses a version of the Nano Cell tech found on LG's flagship SUPER UHD lineup for improved color performance. All of the sets use edge-lit backlights and select models also add local dimming support. 4K Active HDR capabilities are included as well, though the standard Ultra HD models will only offer HDR10 and HLG playback, eschewing the Dolby Vision support found on the SUPER UHD and OLED models. (Last year's model pictured above) Here's a full rundown of LG's 2018 4K Ultra HD TV lineup: UK6300 Sizes: 65-inches, 55-inches, 50-inches, 49-inches, 43-inches Panel: 4K IPS Display Processor: Quad Core HDR: 4K Active HDR Sound: Ultra Surround Dimming: Edge-lit on 65-inch and 55-inch Smart: webOS with Smart Assistant UK6500/70 Sizes: 86-inches, 75-inches, 70-inches, 65-inches, 55-inches, 50-inches, 43-inches Panel: 4K IPS Display, 4K VA Display (70-inch only) Processor: Quad Core HDR: 4K Active HDR Sound: Ultra Surround Dimming: Edge-lit on 70-inch, 65-inch, and 55-inch Smart: webOS with Smart Assistant UK7700 Sizes: 65-inches, 55-inches, 49-inches Panel: 4K IPS Display with Nano Cell Processor: Quad Core HDR: 4K Active HDR Sound: Ultra Surround Dimming: Edge-lit Smart: webOS with Smart Assistant Meanwhile, LG has also announced a new Full HD TV lineup. The collection will include the LJ5000, LJ5100, and the LK5400. All three series will feature FHD 1080p LCD panels, and as a new feature for an HD model in 2018, the LK5400 will also include Active HDR support. Here's a full rundown of LG's 2018 FHD TV lineup: LJ5000 Sizes: 43-inches, 32-inches Processor: Dual Core HDR: No Sound: Clear Voice Smart: No LJ5100 Sizes: 49-inches Processor: Dual Core HDR: No Sound: Clear Voice Smart: No LK5400 Sizes: 49-inches, 43-inches, 32-inches Processor: Quad Core HDR: Active HDR Sound: Virtual Surround Plus Smart: webOS with Smart Assistant (requires separate Google Home device) Pricing and availability for LG's 2018 4K UHD and FHD TV lineup have not been announced yet. More details are expected to be revealed at CES 2018 in Las Vegas on January 9-12 where the new displays will be showcased to the public. In addition to the above models, LG also recently detailed it flagship 2018 4K OLED and SUPER UHD TV lineups. Source: LGPosted Wed Jan 3, 2018 at 09:10 AM PST by: -
Coming Soon to Blu-ray: 'Last Flag Flying,' 'The Florida Project,' and More[teaser]Films starring Steve Carell, Bryan Cranston, Melissa McCarthy, Willem Dafoe, and more are all heading to Blu-ray.[/teaser] New info has been revealed for several upcoming Blu-ray releases from Lionsgate, Echo Bridge Entertainment, Severin, Well Go USA, Crimson Forest Films, Paramount, Altered Innocence, Mill Creek Entertainment, and Mondo Macabro. Here's a full rundown of recently revealed details and title announcements: First up, Lionsgate will release Cathryn Michon's Cook Off starring Cathryn Michon, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Melissa McCarthy, Gary Anthony Williams, and Niecy Nash on January 16. Supplements will include: - Featurette: Cook-Off: The Ultimate Food Fight- Deleted Scenes- Outtakes In addition, the studio is bringing Richard Linklater's Last Flag Flying starring Steve Carell, Bryan Cranston, Laurence Fishburne, Yul Vazquez, and Kate Easton to Blu-ray on January 30. Supplements have not been detailed yet. Meanwhile, Sean Baker's The Florida Project starring Willem Dafoe, Brooklynn Prince, Caleb Landry Jones, Macon Blair, and Karren Karagulian will hit Blu-ray on February 20. No other info has been revealed at this time. Likewise, Jared Moshe's The Ballad of Lefty Brown starring Bill Pullman, Peter Fonda, Michael Spears, Dillinger Steele, and Kathy Baker will also arrive on Blu-ray on February 13. Supplements have not been revealed yet. Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Severin is prepping Mick Jackson's Threads starring Reece Dinsdale, David Brierly, and Karen Meagher for Blu-ray on January 30. A Limited Edition version (3,500 copies) with a lenticular cover will also be available that same day. Both releases will feature a new 2K remaster of the film, and supplements will include: - Audio Commentary with Director Mick Jackson, Moderated by Film Writer Kier–La Janisse and Severin Films' David Gregory- Audition For the Apocalypse: Interview with Actress, Karen Meagher- Shooting the Annihilation: Interview with Director of Photography, Andrew Dunn- Destruction Designer: Interview with Production Designer, Christopher Robilliard- Interview with Film Writer, Stephen Thrower- U.S. Trailer In addition, the label will bring Umberto Lenzi's Eaten Alive starring Robert Kerman, Janet Agren, Ivan Rassimov, Paola Senatore, and Me Me Lai to Blu-ray on February 13. A Limited Edition version with a soundtrack CD and an exclusive slip-sleeve will also be available that same day. Both releases will feature a new 2K remaster of the film, and supplements will include: - Welcome To The Jungle: Interview With Director Umberto Lenzi- Me Me Lai Bites Back: Feature Documentary On The Queen Of Cannibal Movies- The Sect of The Purification: Interview With Production Designer Antonello Geleng- Archive Interviews With Actors Ivan Rassimov and Robert Kerman- 2013 Q&A With Umberto Lenzi from the Festival of Fantastic Films, UK Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Echo Bridge Entertainment is set to release Taboo: Season One starring David Hayman, Tom Hardy, Jonathan Pryce, Oona Chaplin, and Jessie Buckley on February 6. No other details have been announced at this time. Order the Blu-ray Well Go USA is bringing Lei Yang's Legend of the Naga Pearls starring Darren Wang and Yu Xing to Blu-ray on January 30. Supplements will include a trailer. In addition, the label is set to release Yoon Hong-Seung's Reset starring Mi Yang, Wallace Huo, and King Shih-Chieh on February 6. Bonus features will include a trailer. Meanwhile, Lu Yang's Brotherhood of Blades II: The Infernal Battlefield starring Chang Chen, Yang Mi, Zhang Yi, Lei Jiayin, Xin Zhilei and King Shih Chieh is due for release on February 13. Supplements will include: - Behind-the-Scenes Footage- Trailer Dimitri Logothetis' Kickboxer: Retaliation starring Alain Moussi, Christopher Lambert, and Jean-Claude Van Damme will then follow a month later on March 13. No other details have been revealed at this time. And rounding out Well Go USA's upcoming slate of titles will be Takashi Miike's Ichi the Killer starring Shinya Tsukamoto, Nao Omori, and Tadanobu Asano on March 20. Supplements have not been announced yet. Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Crimson Forest Films is prepping Alan Mak's Extraordinary Mission starring Yihong Duan and Xuan Huang for Blu-ray on February 6. Supplements have not been detailed yet. Order the Blu-ray Paramount is prepping Michael Carney's Same Kind of Different as Me starring Renée Zellweger, Jon Voight, Djimon Hounsou, Greg Kinnear, and Olivia Holt for Blu-ray on February 20. Supplements will include: - Audio Commentary by director Michael Carney, writer Ron Hall and writer Alexander Foard- Love is Patient, Love is Kind—The Making of Same Kind of Different As Me- Filming in Mississippi- Deleted and Extended Scenes Order the Blu-ray Altered Innocence is bringing Andrew Cividino's Sleeping Giant starring Jackson Martin, Nick Serino, and Erika Brodzky to Blu-ray on February 27. Supplements will include: - Booklet Featuring an Essay by Film Critic Kyle Turner- Short Film: Sleeping Giant (2014)- Outtakes- Cannes Featurette- The Music of Sleeping Giant Featurette- Reversible Art- Original Trailer Order the Blu-ray Mill Creek Entertainment is set to release a Kevin Bacon 6 Movie Collection on March 6. The package will include The Big Picture, Flatliners, Hollow Man, Trapped, In the Cut, and Where the Truth Lies. Order the Blu-ray Finally, Mondo Macabro is prepping Paul Naschy's The Devil Incarnate starring Paul Naschy, Blanca Estrada, Rafael Hernández, Manuel Pereiro, and Silvia Aguilar for Blu-ray early this year. The release is set to feature a new 4K restoration of the film from the original camera negative, and supplements will include: - Audio commentary by Troy Howarth, author of the forthcoming book Human Beasts: The Films of Paul Naschy- Archival video intro to the film by Paul Naschy- Brand new interviews with actor David Rocha, Naschy's son Sergio Molina, and interview and tour of Naschy's house and office with his son Bruno Molina You can find the latest specs for all of the titles listed above linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule.Posted Wed Jan 3, 2018 at 06:00 AM PST by: -
LG Details 2018 4K OLED & SUPER UHD TV Lineup[teaser]The company's upcoming display collection has been unveiled.[/teaser] In advance of the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next week, LG has revealed its new slate of OLED and SUPER UHD TVs. The lineup uses the company's new ThinQ artificial intelligence (AI), the new α (Alpha) 9 and 7 processors, and 4K Cinema HDR tech. "As a leading innovator in the TV industry, LG is pleased to introduce the LG ThinQ and α (Alpha) 9 processor for an unrivaled viewing experience," said Tim Alessi, head of product marketing at LG Electronics USA. "LG is dedicated to providing cutting-edge technology that elevates user lifestyles and offers unmatched convenience. In 2018, our 'Best TV Ever' gets even better." The new ThinQ AI tech found on 2018 LG OLED and SUPER UHD TVs allows customers to take advantage of advanced voice assistant features by speaking directly into their remote controls, enabling users to search for information, images or videos through verbal requests like "show me all of the movies this actor has starred in." Likewise, ThinQ TVs can also serve as smart home hubs with access to other smart home devices like robotic vacuum cleaners, air conditioners, air purifiers, smart lights, smart speakers and more. The feature uses Natural Language Processing (NLP) based on LG’s DeepThinQ to power its intelligent voice-activated control. In addition, ThinQ AI TVs support services based on Electronic Program Guide (EPG) to access real time info or to switch to a channel with requested content. 2018 OLED TV Lineup Building upon last year's OLED collection, the 2018 OLED lineup is set to include the B8, C8, E8, and W8 series. With the exception of the entry-level B8, all of the OLED sets will use the company's new α (Alpha) 9 intelligent processor for improved image and color performance over last year's models. The α (Alpha) 9 boasts a new four-step noise reduction process, advanced mapping capabilities, and a refined color correction algorithm to deliver better clarity and more accurate, natural colors. In addition, the (Alpha) 9 supports next generation high frame rate (HFR) content with 120 frames per second playback capabilities. Meanwhile, the OLED lineup also includes support for LG's 4K Cinema HDR suite of high dynamic range formats, including Advanced HDR by Technicolor, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma). In addition, the displays offer a technicolor expert mode with settings optimized by Technicolor's color scientists. Likewise, new HDR10 Pro and HLG Pro options are provided as well, allowing the TVs to process HDR10 and HLG images dynamically frame by frame using LG's proprietary algorithm with Enhanced Dynamic Tone mapping. This should approximate the effect of HDR formats that use native dynamic metadata like Dolby Vision. Here's a full rundown of specs and sizes for LG's 2018 OLED lineup: B8 Series Sizes: 65-inches, 55-inches Processor: α (Alpha) 7 HDR/HFR: 4K Cinema HDR, 4K HFR Sound: Dolby Atmos 40W 2.2Ch Design: Blade Slim Smart: webOS with ThinQ C8 Series Sizes: 77-inches, 65-inches, 55-inches Processor: α (Alpha) 9 HDR/HFR: 4K Cinema HDR, 4K HFR Sound: Dolby Atmos 40W 2.2Ch Design: Blade Slim Smart: webOS with ThinQ E8 Series Sizes: 65-inches, 55-inches Processor: α (Alpha) 9 HDR/HFR: 4K Cinema HDR, 4K HFR Sound: Dolby Atmos 60W 4.2Ch Design: Picture-on-Glass Smart: webOS with ThinQ W8 Series Sizes: 77-inches, 65-inches Processor: α (Alpha) 9 HDR/HFR: 4K Cinema HDR, 4K HFR Sound: Dolby Atmos 60W 4.2Ch Design: Picture-on-Wall Smart: webOS with ThinQ 2018 SUPER UHD TV Lineup The new 2018 SUPER UHD TV collection will include the SK9500, SK9000, and SK8000 series. All of the displays use LCD panels with LG's Nano Cell technology for wider colors and improved viewing angles. In addition, the sets incorporate the new α (Alpha) 7 processor, a step-down version of the company's advanced α (Alpha) 9, for enhanced image rendering. And as a very welcomed new feature for 2018, the SK9500 and SK9000 models include Full Array Local Dimming (FALD) support for improved black level performance. Unlike the edge-lit dimming used on LG's 2017 lineup, FALD offers independent control of LED light zones behind the image to create an inkier and more uniform picture with better shadow detail and less light bleed. With that said, the SK8000 model will still implement edge-lit dimming. Finally, the SUPER UHD lineup also includes support for LG's 4K Cinema HDR suite of high dynamic range formats, including Advanced HDR by Technicolor, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma); and new HDR10 Pro and HLG Pro options with Enhanced Dynamic Tone mapping. Here's a full rundown of specs and sizes for LG's 2018 SUPER UHD TV lineup: SK8000 Sizes: 75-inches, 65-inches, 55-inches Panel: Nano Cell Display Processor: α (Alpha) 7 Dimming: Edge-Lit Local Dimming HDR/HFR: 4K Cinema HDR, 4K HFR Sound: Dolby Atmos Smart: webOS with ThinQ SK9000 Sizes: 65-inches, 55-inches Panel: Nano Cell Display Processor: α (Alpha) 7 Dimming: Full Array Local Dimming HDR/HFR: 4K Cinema HDR, 4K HFR Sound: Dolby Atmos Smart: webOS with ThinQ SK9500 Sizes: 65-inches, 55-inches Panel: Nano Cell Display Processor: α (Alpha) 7 Dimming: Full Array Local Dimming Pro HDR/HFR: 4K Cinema HDR, 4K HFR Sound: Dolby Atmos Smart: webOS with ThinQ Pricing and availability for LG's 2018 4K OLED and SUPER UHD TV lineup have not been announced yet. More details are expected to be revealed at CES 2018 in Las Vegas on January 9-12 where the new displays will be showcased to the public. Source: LGPosted Tue Jan 2, 2018 at 05:00 PM PST by: -
Flixster Video is Shutting Down[teaser]The UltraViolet digital copy redemption and playback service is closing its website.[/teaser] Flixster Video has announced plans to terminate its website and all related operations in the US on February 20, 2018. In addition, the platform has already stopped supporting the redemption of UltraViolet digital codes and playback of videos in the US. As an alternative, Flixster customers can use VUDU to access their existing UltraViolet libraries. Users simply need to go to the VUDU website, sign up or log in, and then click on the "Account Info" page. From there, customers can follow the instructions to link their UltraViolet library to VUDU. This should then offer access to the same collection of redeemed UV titles previously available through Flixster Video. An in addition to UltraViolet, VUDU users also now have the option to link their accounts to the new Movies Anywhere digital locker system. Movies Anywhere allows users to buy, redeem, and store digital films from five major studios and then sync those titles across multiple retailer apps and playback devices. The platform supports a growing collection of over 7,300 digital titles from Disney, 20th Century Fox, Warner Bros., Universal, and Sony. Likewise, in addition to the ability to link to VUDU, Movies Anywhere can also link to Amazon Video, iTunes, and Google Play -- letting customers access all of their content on the service and device of their choosing. Click here for a full review. With that said, UltraViolet TV shows and select movies previously supported by Flixster are not currently available in Movies Anywhere, but users should still be able to access their full UV libraries through VUDU. Source: Flixster VideoPosted Tue Jan 2, 2018 at 03:35 PM PST by: -
LG Reveals 88-Inch 8K OLED Display[teaser]The company has unveiled the world's first 88-inch 8K OLED.[/teaser] LG Display has revealed its latest innovation in OLED tech, announcing the development of an 88-inch OLED panel with an 8K resolution. The display will be showcased at CES 2018 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. "The successful development of the world's first 8K OLED display is a milestone for the 8K era and underscores the exciting potential of OLED," said In-Byung Kang, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at LG Display. "OLED is clearly a next-generation technology leader and for this reason, LG Display is accelerating its research and development into OLED so that we can provide differentiated products to customers and markets." The 88-inch display features an 8K resolution with 33 million pixels (7680 x 4320), four times more than 4K Ultra HD screens (3840 x 2160). In addition, the set uses an OLED panel which is key in allowing LG to develop a higher res screen without sacrificing brightness. When producing a typical LCD panel with non-emissive pixels, increasing the resolution requires a reduction in the size of each pixel. This leads to a lower aperture ratio which reduces the screen's brightness. In order to compensate for this loss, LCDs with higher resolutions need to then boost their backlights which leads to higher energy use and greater material costs. In contrast, aperture ratio is less of a factor with self-emissive OLED panels, making the tech better suited for maintaining brightness performance at higher resolutions. Likewise, OLEDs don't need backlights at all, allowing them to remain thinner and lighter than 8K LCDs while producing deeper black levels. A consumer version of the LG 88-inch 8K panel has not been detailed, but the display will be demoed at CES next week. OLED TVs currently on the market max out at 4K resolution with sizes as large as 77-inches. Source: LG DisplayPosted Tue Jan 2, 2018 at 02:55 PM PST by: -
This Week in Gear: Netflix Launches HDR Support for Windows 10, LG Teams Up with Meridian Audio, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including the addition of HDR Netflix support for compatible Windows 10 devices, and more.[/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering Netflix HDR playback for Windows 10 devices, LG's new partnership with Meridian Audio, T-Mobile's plans to launch a new TV service in 2018, and the reveal of Lenovo's first standalone Daydream VR headset. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Netflix Adds HDR10 Support to Windows 10 Netflix has announced the expansion of HDR10 streaming support to Windows 10 computers through the Netflix app or Microsoft Edge web browser. In order to watch HDR10 Netflix content, Windows 10 users will need compatible hardware and a Netflix premium subscription plan. HDR10 is an open standard High Dynamic Range solution for displays and content creation. The process uses expanded brightness to improve contrast between dark and light aspects of an image, bringing out deeper black levels and more realistic details in specular highlights -- like the sun reflecting off of an ocean -- in specially graded HDR10 material. Likewise, the tech is typically bundled with a wide color gamut, providing a greater range of colors than those found in traditional HD sources and TVs using the previous Rec. 709 color standard. Netflix currently offers over 200 hours of HDR content, including titles like Stranger Things 2, Bright, and Chef's Table. To view HDR10 streams with Netflix on Windows 10, subscribers will need a Netflix premium plan, the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update. an HDR10 capable display, an Intel 7th Gen or higher CPU with integrated graphics or a recent NVIDIA GPU. Here's a more detailed breakdown of supported gear per Netflix: If using integrated Intel GPU: Windows 10 Creators Update is required (version 1703).CPU: 7th Generation Core (i3, i5, or i7 7xxx or 7Yxx) or higher processor.Graphics Driver: 22.XX.XX series, version 4708 or higher. If using discrete NVIDIA GPU: Windows 10 Fall Creators Update is required (version 1703).GPU: 1050, 1060, 1070, and 1080 cards with at least 3GB of video RAM.Graphics Driver: 387.68 (23.21.13.8768) or higher. Source: Netflix 1, Netflix 2, Engadget LG Teams Up with Meridian Audio LG has announced a new partnership with British company Meridian Audio. As part of the agreement, LG will incorporate Meridian Audio tech into select products. "This partnership with Meridian is an example of LG's commitment to creating premium audio systems that can rival the best in the business," said Seo Young-jae, head of CAV(Convergence Audio and Video) products at LG Home Entertainment Company. "This partnership is all about delivering an outstanding entertainment experience for LG customers worldwide." LG and Meridian will now collaborate on various audio devices like sound bars and wireless speakers, including several recently announced models for 2018. Meridian is known for its expertise in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and psychoacoustics, and the company created the world's first digital active loudspeaker. "We are thrilled to have entered into this unique partnership with LG and confident that our expertise and shared values will see us bring a great number of innovations to the market together, both now and in the future," said John Buchanan, chief executive officer at Meridian Audio. Source: LG T-Mobile Preps New TV Service for 2018 T-Mobile has announced plans to launch a new TV service in 2018 to compete with traditional cable and satellite offerings. As part of the company's plans, the mobile carrier has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Layer3 TV, Inc. ("Layer3 TV") to help create the new platform. "People love their TV, but they hate their TV providers. And worse, they have no real choice but to simply take it – the crappy customer service, clunky technology and outrageous bills loaded with fees! That's where we come in. We're gonna fix the pain points and bring real choice to consumers across the country," said John Legere, president and CEO of T-Mobile. "It only makes sense for the Un-carrier to do to TV what we're doing to wireless: change it for good! Personally, I can't wait to start fighting for consumers here!" Though full details on T-Mobile's upcoming TV service have not been revealed, the company is hoping to develop a system and distribution model that eschews the multi-year service contracts, high bills, expanding bundles, outdated tech, closed systems, and poor customer service found on many conventional TV platforms. In order to help achieve this goal, the company will leverage Layer3 TV's experience in streaming video and social media tech. Likewise, T-Mobile plans to use its fast LTE network and its developing 5G network as part of its overall mobile video strategy. "We're in the midst of the Golden Age of TV, and yet people have never been more frustrated by the status quo created by Big Cable and Satellite TV," said Mike Sievert, Chief Operating Officer of T-Mobile. "That's because the world is changing – with mobile video, streaming services, cord cutting, original content and more -- and yet, the old guard simply can’t – or won't – evolve. It’s time for a disruptor to shake things up and give people real choice like only the Un-carrier can." Source: T-Mobile Lenovo Mirage Solo VR Headset Revealed As spotted by Android Central and Let's Go Digital, recent FCC documents have revealed an upcoming VR headset from Lenovo. The Mirage Solo is set to be the company's first standalone Daydream VR device. Unlike most VR headsets that require a smartphone or connected PC, the Mirage Solo will not need a separate device and will instead use its own integrated display and hardware to offer full Daydream VR support. Though complete specs have not been revealed yet, the headset will include a 4,000 mAh battery and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. Likewise, Google previously announced that standalone Daydream VR headsets are expected to use new tracking technology called WorldSense, which can enable positional tracking to determine a user's precise movements in space for some level of room-scale VR without any external sensors. In addition to Lenovo, other standalone Daydream VR headsets are in development from HTC VIVE. Official specs and details for the Lenovo Mirage Solo could be announced next month at CES 2018 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. Sources: Android Central, Let's Go DigitalPosted Fri Dec 29, 2017 at 02:30 PM PST by: -
LG Unveils 2018 Speaker Lineup[teaser]The company's upcoming audio gear has been detailed.[/teaser] LG has revealed its slate of 2018 speakers. The collection includes the SK10Y 5.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos-enabled sound bar, the PK Series portable speakers, and the ThinQ AI Speaker. "Sound technology has come a long way since LG introduced the first radio to the Korean market almost 60 years ago," said Tim Alessi, head of product marketing at LG Electronics USA. "Our latest lineup of audio products has been designed for those listeners who value premium sound with smart-enabled capabilities, and demonstrates how LG continues to push the boundaries on how people enjoy music and movies." The SK10Y is a 5.1.2 550W sound bar model with Dolby Atmos support and two up-firing speakers to simulate overhead audio effects. Users can also adjust the volume for the up-firing speakers to better suit their particular ceilings and room dynamics. In addition, the unit uses Meridian audio tech, including Bass and Space enhancements, along with Meridian's Height Elevation technology which brings sound up to the level of the display. Lossless audio playback is supported as well. Meanwhile, the PK Series offers an assortment of portable speakers with Meridian Audio tech and support for the APT-X HD Bluetooth standard for streaming 24-bit music over a wireless connection. Likewise, the units offer mood lighting capabilities for dynamic party lighting that flashes to the beat of the music being played. Finally, the ThinQ Speaker is LG's first smart AI audio device. The speaker combines high quality playback with built-in support for Google Assistant, allowing it to serve as a digital assistant and a personalized voice-activated interface for LG's smart home appliances. In addition, the unit also uses Meridian audio tech and includes high resolution lossless audio support. Exact pricing and availability for LG's new audio lineup have not been announced yet, but the speakers will all be on display at CES 2018 in Las Vegas from January 9-12. Source: LGPosted Wed Dec 27, 2017 at 09:00 PM PST by: -
Redbox Set to Offer Same-Day Blu-ray Rentals for Universal Titles[teaser]Universal movies will be available to rent the same day that they hit stores.[/teaser] Redbox has signed an expanded distribution deal with Universal for same-day DVD and Blu-ray rentals through the company's kiosks. This means that new Universal titles will now be available to rent through Redbox the same day that they are released in retail stores for purchase. In addition, the agreement also adds Universal titles to the new Redbox On Demand digital platform. "We are very pleased that our more than seven-year partnership with Universal has evolved into the best case for Redbox consumers, who will now be able to enjoy day-and-date access to Universal's new releases across Redbox's disc and digital services," said Galen Smith, CEO of Redbox. Prior to the new deal, there was a 28-day window before Redbox could start renting Universal titles once they were released on home video. The same-day rental agreement will start with the release of Universal's January Blu-ray and DVD titles, including American Made and Brad's Status on January 2. Outside of Universal, Redbox also has same-day rental deals with Sony and Lionsgate. Meanwhile, the company has a 7-day window for Warner Bros. and 20th Century Fox titles, leaving Disney as one of the only major studios it does not have a direct deal with. On that note, Disney is actually in the process of suing Redbox for selling the digital copy codes that come with Disney releases. Redbox currently has more than 41,500 rental kiosks nationwide and is continuing to add more. Redbox DVD rentals start at $1.50 per night and Blu-ray rentals start at $2 per night. And beyond the company's physical media rental options, Redbox also now offers a new On Demand platform for digital rentals and purchases. Source: Redbox via PR Newswire, VarietyPosted Wed Dec 27, 2017 at 10:20 AM PST by: -
Epson Releases HDR Firmware Update for Supported Projectors[teaser]Improved HDR performance is now available on select models.[/teaser] Epson has announced the release of an HDR (high dynamic range) firmware update for its line of HDR capable projectors. The upgrade is now available for the Home Cinema 4000, Pro Cinema 4040, Home Cinema 5040, Home Cinema 5040UBe, and Pro Cinema 6040. Here's a rundown of some key improvements made to HDR performance with the new update per Epson: - Brightness, clarity and color saturation improved- Increased overall white and color lumen brightness - Contrast and brightness noticeably improved in lower greys- Higher perceived detail – especially in the middle greys and dark As part of the update, Epson has also altered the projectors' HDR mode selection to add a new"Brightest" option while removing the "Darkest" mode. Users can still choose between four default HDR modes and the menus themselves have not actually been changed, but Mode 1 has now been upgraded from Bright to Brightest and Mode 4 has been changed from Darkest to Dark. As a result, the settings that use to activate under HDR 1 mode will now activate under HDR 2, and the HDR 1 option now offers the new "Brightest" mode settings. In order for users to update their projector's HDR firmware, customers should follow these exact instructions from Epson: 1. Download from http://download2.ebz.epson.net/dsc/vi/fw/EPSONPJ_t5111_111.bin2. Save file to an empty USB drive (FAT32 formatted) (do not rename file)3. Disconnect power cord from projector4. Connect USB drive to the projector’s USB port (use the USB port next to the mini-USB NOT the Opt.HDMI)5. Press and HOLD the power button6. Without releasing power button, connect power cord7. When all indicator lights turn on, release power button8. Update will take a few minutes, and then projector will turn off automatically9. Turn on projector by pressing power button10. Using remote control or projector’s control, press menu, and select Info, then Version11. Version should display: xxxxxxx11112. HDR mode Auto should be chosen for the best picture13. HDR mode Auto (Bright) should be chosen for the brightest picture Once updated, Epson recommends a Lamp setting of High, Saturation level of 55, and Image Enhancement level of 5. In addition, Epson also recommends adjusting the projector's Color Mode before adjusting its HDR mode, and has specific recommended settings for different lighting conditions: High Quality in Dark Viewing Environments - Digital Cinema Color Mode with HDR Auto Mode. Optimal Quality and Brightness Blend - Bright Cinema Color Mode with HDR Auto Mode. Optimal Quality and Brightness in High Ambient Light - Bright Cinema Color Mode with HDR Auto (Bright) Mode. Customers with compatible Epson projectors can now download the new HDR firmware update, and units with the firmware update pre-installed will start shipping in February. Source: EpsonPosted Tue Dec 26, 2017 at 03:30 PM PST by: -
Giveaway: Win T2 on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[Teaser]UPDATE: The entry period for this giveaway is now OVER. Thanks so much to all who entered; we have notified all three winners.[/Teaser] Thanks to the kind folks over at Lionsgate Home Entertainment, we have THREE copies of the Terminator 2: Judgement Day 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray to giveaway before 2017 ends. To be clear, T2 was never much been a stunner in HD, and while many had hopes for the new 4K master created for the film's 3D re-release, the results are a bit of a mixed bag. Our eagle-eyed Professor E scored this particular video transfer a 3.0 out of 5.0 stars, noting excessive DNR (digital noise reduction) in places as well as some unwanted tweaked color timing (hello, orange n' teal!). Still, this new 4K master does mark a step-up in terms of overall detail and color saturation and should be fun for any Terminator fan or 4K enthusiast to own. TO ENTER 1) FOLLOW High-Def Digest on Facebook OR Twitter 2) POST this article on Facebook OR Twitter, tagging High-Def Digest, and using the hashtag #T24KGiveaway 3) COMMENT below (on this page), telling us your favorite blockbuster of all time. THE GIVEAWAY ENTRY PERIOD ENDS At 9AM PST on Friday, December 29, 2017. THREE WINNERS Will be selected at RANDOM, notified in the comments below, and given 24 hours to message us with their preferred shipping information. After 24 hours, we'll move onto the next random winner, and so on. OFFICIAL RULES By entering or participating in this giveaway, participants agree to be bound by High-Def Digest's Official Rules, which you can read in full HERE. Unfortunately, this giveaway is only open legal residents of the United States. Good luck to you all!Posted Tue Dec 26, 2017 at 11:21 AM PST by:
