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Apple Reveals Apple TV 4K with HDR and Dolby Vision Support[teaser]The new Ultra HD Apple TV model has officially been unveiled.[/teaser] Following months of rumors, Apple has finally announced its new Apple TV 4K. The media player will start at $179 and comes complete with support for Ultra HD playback with high dynamic range. "Bring the magic of the cinema straight to your living room with the new Apple TV 4K," said Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Internet Software and Services. "Customers will love watching stunning 4K HDR movies from an impressive catalog on iTunes, while also getting automatic upgrades of 4K HDR movies already in their iTunes library and enjoying 4K content on services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, coming soon." The Apple TV 4K utilizes the A10X Fusion chip and offers 4K playback capabilities at up to 60 frames per second with support for HDR10 and Dolby Vision content. Users will be able to view 4K HDR titles from iTunes and other services like Netflix and Amazon Video. Likewise, customers will even be able to receive automatic 4K HDR upgrades of HD titles in their existing iTunes library when they become available free of charge. In addition, the device includes 4K scaling for HD sources, Siri voice search, iCloud support for media sharing, standard AirPlay capabilities, and the ability to serve as a smart home hub for HomeKit accessories with remote access and automated control. AirPlay 2 support will be added later this year as well, enabling the unit to control multiple AirPlay 2-compatible speakers. Apple TV 4K models will be available in 32GB ($179) and 64GB ($199) versions starting September 22. Pre-orders are set to launch on September 15. Source: ApplePosted Tue Sep 12, 2017 at 11:30 AM PDT by: -
Shout Select Blu-ray Sale and ContestFor this week only, Shout Factory is having a big sale on a wide-range of Blu-ray titles. Save up to 57% on classic films, cult favorites, and unheralded gems from Shout Select here. Shout Factory is also offering up to 60% in saving on some of their other popular titles as well. PLUS - Don't miss your chance to enter a contest to win the red carpet treatment and get every Shout Select title for a year!Posted Tue Sep 12, 2017 at 08:01 AM PDT by: -
Coming Soon to Streaming: 'Rememory,' 'Gerald's Game,' 'Alias Grace,' and More[teaser]Several new streaming trailers have been revealed, and Google Play is now streaming Rememory starring Peter Dinklage free of charge for a limited time.[/teaser] Netflix and Hulu have released new trailers and other info for several of their upcoming shows and movies, including Gaga: Five Foot Two, Gerald's Game, The Magic School Bus Rides Again, One of Us, Alias Grace, Lady Dynamite, The Mindy Project, and Chance. In addition, Lionsgate is streaming its new film, Rememory, for free through Google Play for a limited time. Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: Rememory (Google Play, Available for free until September 20) - The film explores the unexplained death of Gordon Dunn (Martin Donovan), a visionary scientific pioneer whose body is found shortly after the unveiling of his newest work: a device able to extract, record and play a person’s memories. Gordon’s wife, Carolyn (Julia Ormond), retreats into her house and cuts off contact with the outside world when a mysterious man (Peter Dinklage) shows up. After stealing the machine, he uses it to try and solve the mystery, beginning an investigation of memories that lead him to unexpected and dangerous places. In addition to Google Play, Rememory is also now playing in theaters. Gaga: Five Foot Two (Netflix, September 22) - In the Netflix original documentary Gaga: Five Foot Two, Lady Gaga offers a vulnerable look of her life during one of the most pivotal periods in her career yet. Directed by Emmy®-nominated filmmaker Chris Moukarbel (Banksy Does New York, Me at the Zoo), the film is shot in the style of cinema verité, giving viewers unfiltered, behind-the-scenes access as Gaga spends time with close friends and family members, records and releases her 2016 album Joanne and, deals with personal struggles. Gerald's Game (Netflix, September 29) - While trying to spice up their marriage in their remote lake house, Jessie must fight to survive when her husband dies unexpectedly, leaving her handcuffed to their bed frame. Starring Carla Gugino and Bruce Greenwood. Directed by Mike Flanagan. The Magic School Bus Rides Again (Netflix, September 29) - The kids are back at Walkerville School for another school year of astonishing, out-of-this-world field trips in this all-new reimagining of the iconic science-comedy-adventure series The Magic School Bus. But this year, there’s a new Frizzle (Kate McKinnon)! The younger sister of the famed Professor Frizzle (Lily Tomlin) has taken over the classroom! But worry not – the new Ms Frizzle shares her sister’s zany ways and passion for science. Field trips this year are wilder than ever, into the clouds, across the internet, riding the continents – even a plunge into the depths of the Sun itself! And along the way, the kids we know and love bring their science investigations into the 21st century – still taking chances, making mistakes and getting messy! One of Us (Netflix, October 20) - Explores the opaque world of Hasidic Judaism through a cadre of fascinating characters. Through unique and intimate access over the span of three years, acclaimed observational filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady (Jesus Camp, Detropia) delve into the lives of three brave individuals who have recently made the decision to leave the insular ultra-orthodox community at the expense of all else, including relationships with their family members and - in one case - their personal safety. With a sensitive and compassionate eye, One of Us chronicles the achingly cinematic journey of people in search of a personal freedom that comes only at a very high cost. Alias Grace (Netflix, November 3) - The story of Alias Grace follows Grace Marks, a poor, young Irish immigrant and domestic servant in Upper Canada who, along with stable hand James McDermott, was convicted of the brutal murders of their employer, Thomas Kinnear, and his housekeeper, Nancy Montgomery, in 1843. James was hanged while Grace was sentenced to life imprisonment. Grace became one of the most enigmatic and notorious women of 1840s Canada for her supposed role in the sensational double murder, and was eventually exonerated after 30 years in jail. Her conviction was controversial, and sparked much debate about whether Grace was actually involved in the murder, or merely an unwitting accessory. Lady Dynamite: Season Two (Netflix, November 10) - Series is based on what Maria Bamford has accepted to be “her life.” The occasionally surreal episodes, refracted across multiple periods inspired by the actor/comedian’s life, tell the story of a woman who loses- and then finds- her s**t. The Mindy Project: Season Six (Hulu, September 12) - A single-camera comedy, starring Mindy Kaling, that follows a skilled OB/GYN navigating the tricky waters of both her personal and professional life, as she pursues her dreams of becoming the perfect woman, finding the perfect man and getting her perfect romantic comedy ending. Chance: Season Two (Hulu, October 11) - Based on the acclaimed novel by Kem Nunn, Chance is a provocative, psychological thriller that focuses on Eldon Chance (Hugh Laurie), a San Francisco-based forensic neuropsychiatrist who reluctantly gets sucked into a violent and dangerous world of mistaken identity, police corruption and mental illness. After an ill-advised decision regarding an alluring patient who may or may not be struggling with a multiple personality disorder, Chance finds himself in the crosshairs of her abusive spouse, who also happens to be a ruthless police detective. In over his head, Chance's descent into the city’s wayward underbelly, all while navigating the waters of a contentious divorce and tribulations of his teenage daughter, soon spirals into an ever deepening exploration of one of mankind’s final frontiers- the shadowy, undiscovered country of the human mind. Also starring Gretchen Mol, LisaGay Hamilton, Paul Adelstein, Ethan Suplee and Stefania LaVie Owen. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 per month for HD streaming and $12 per month for Ultra HD streaming. - A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month Sources: Netflix (YouTube), Hulu (YouTube), Lionsgate, Google PlayPosted Mon Sep 11, 2017 at 09:45 PM PDT by: -
This Week in Gear: New Yamaha MusicCast Features, YouTube Adds Mobile HDR Support, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including new integration features for MusicCast devices, mobile support for YouTube HDR, 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 updated features for Yamaha's MusicCast platform, the arrival of YouTube HDR support on mobile devices, a new dual-roller projection screen system from Stewart Filmscreen, and the addition of CW Seed streaming to the Amazon Fire TV. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Yamaha Announces Alexa Support and Integration Enhancements for MusicCast Devices To coincide with the CEDIA 2017 tech show, Yamaha has detailed several new features geared toward custom integration use for its line of MusicCast multi-room audio devices. The updates include support for more home-control systems, new remote management capabilities, and voice control of multi-room audio through Amazon Alexa. "MusicCast is the most flexible multi-room audio system available today," said Robert Goedken, general manager, AV division, Yamaha Corporation of America. "Whether a consumer wants music and audio solutions that are wired, wireless, or some combination of both, MusicCast offers more solutions for everyone. Now, with new control system integration, remote monitoring capabilities and voice control with Amazon Alexa, integrators will find even more ways to amaze their clients with custom-tailored experiences." With MusicCast, users can stream audio through a simple Android or iOS app, and easily link to other MusicCast products like speakers, AV receivers and Hi-Fi gear in other rooms to share music throughout the home. And as part of the tech's new feature set, the company has revealed plans to launch the MusicCast skill for Amazon Alexa in early October, allowing MusicCast voice control through Alexa-enabled devices like the Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Tap, and Echo Show. MusicCast functions set to be supported by Alexa include powering products on and off, controlling basic playback, selecting playlists, and linking multiple MusicCast products together. In addition, Yamaha plans to offer further integration of Alexa into its AV lineup in the winter. Meanwhile, upcoming updates also include MusicCast product support for RTI and URC IP-based home-control systems, allowing users to control Yamaha audio products throughout the house via in-wall and tabletop touchscreens. Likewise, Yamaha is also set to offer new remote monitoring and management capabilities for networked MusicCast devices. Source: Yamaha Google Launches Mobile YouTube HDR Playback Google has launched YouTube HDR (high dynamic range) support for several mobile devices. Supported smartphones currently include the Samsung Galaxy S8, Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus, Samsung Galaxy Note 8, Google Pixel, LG V30, Sony Xperia XZ Premium. The update was first noticed by users on Reddit. HDR is an advanced display and image mastering technology that offers 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 HDR material. In order to watch HDR YouTube content on supported smartphones, users will need the latest YouTube app update. Once updated, viewers will be able to access HDR playback at resolutions up to 1440p when manually changing the video quality of HDR enabled videos. The Galaxy S8 features a 5.8-inch quad HD Super AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2960x1440 and 570ppi; the Galaxy S8+ features a 6.2-inch quad HD Super AMOLED screen with a resolution of 2960x1440 and 529ppi; the Galaxy Note 8 features a 6.3-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED Infinity Display; the LG V30 features a 6-inch 18:9 QuadHD+ OLED FullVision Display with a resolution of 2880 x 1440 and 538ppi; and the Sony Xperia XZ Premium features a 5.5-inch 4K HDR Display with TRILUMINOS tech. Beyond YouTube, Netflix also recently expanded support for mobile HDR playback to the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, LG V30, and Sony Xperia XZ1, joining the previously supported Sony Xperia XZ Premium and LG G6 handsets. Sources: Reddit, Engadget, Sam Mobile Stewart Filmscreen Reveals Gemini Dual Roller Projection Screen System During the CEDIA 2017 tech show in San Diego, Stewart Filmscreen debuted its latest projector screen product. The new dual-roller Gemini projection screen system offers support for switching between two different screen materials and aspect ratios to better suit different lighting conditions and content types. "At Stewart, we pride ourselves on listening to the market. The new Gemini dual roller screen system provides consumers with the ability to enjoy their favorite sports and movies with the best image fidelity and performance, all with one screen application. We're excited to present this new product offering to the market at CEDIA 2017 and hope that attendees will stop by and witness the ultimate viewing experience for themselves," said Shannon Townley, Stewart Filmscreen President and CEO. With the dual-roller Gemini projection screen system, users can automatically switch between two different material projector screens and aspect ratios, allowing customers to transition from a 2:35:1 CinemaScope screen designed for dark home theater use and a 16:9 screen designed for high-ambient lighting conditions during the day. Both screens roll up into Gemini's unobtrusive casing when not in use, and can be unrolled through the push of a button or voice control when paired with a third party solution like an Amazon Echo device with Alexa. The Gemini dual-roller projection system is available in a variety of flexible, front projection types and sizes, including acoustically transparent options. Likewise, the lightweight screen housing comes in a black or white case, and the system includes dual Somfy screen motors for nearly silent use. Source: Stewart Filmscreen Amazon Fire TV Devices Add CW Seed Streaming App The CW has announced the arrival of its free Seed streaming app on Amazon's lineup of Fire TV products, including the Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, and Fire TV Edition displays. The app previously launched on iOS and Android, Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, and Xbox One. Likewise, users can access the service through cwseed.com. CW Seed is a free, ad-supported streaming platform that does not require a separate pay-TV subscription. Though current CW shows are not included, the platform offers a library of catalog series, including titles like Everwood, Everybody Hates Chris, Pushing Daisies, Dynasty, and more. In addition, several CW Seed original shows are also available for streaming. Source: CW Seed via EngadgetPosted Sun Sep 10, 2017 at 06:30 AM PDT by: -
JVC Unveils New D-ILA Projectors with 4K E-Shift and HDR[teaser]Seven custom installation projectors have been revealed.[/teaser] JVC has detailed its latest lineup of D-ILA projectors. The upcoming collection includes the Procision Series DLA-X990RBK, DLA-X790RBK, and DLA-X590RBK, and the Reference Series DLA-RS640K, DLA-RS540K, and DLA-RS440K. Likewise, a new limited edition DLA-20LTD model has also been announced. Though the projectors cannot technically produce a native 4K picture, all of the units feature upgraded 4K e-shift5 technology, allowing them to create 4K (3840x2160) images by shifting pixels diagonally. Likewise, the lineup includes support for HDR (high dynamic range), along with a new Active Intelligent Lens Aperture, and an Auto Switching HDR Picture mode and gamma adjustment. In addition, the DLA-X990RBK/RS640K and DLA-X790RBK/RS540K models also offer two color profiles to prioritize brightness or color in order to better suit a user's viewing environment. Below is a rundown of brightness and contrast ratio specs for each model: - DLA-X990RBK/RS640K: 2,000 lm brightness, 160,000:1 contrast ratio- DLA-X790RBK/RS540K: 1,900 lm brightness, 130,000:1 contrast ratio- DLA-X590RBK/RS440K: 1,800 lm brightness, 40,000:1 contrast ratio Two HDMI/HDCP2.2 inputs are integrated on each projector as well for data transfer rates up to 18Gbps, enabling full spec native 4K signals like 4K60p 4:4:4, 4K60p 4:2:2/36bit and 4K24p 4:4:4/36bit. In addition, the DLA-X990RBK/RS640K and DLA-X790RBK/RS540K models also include THX 3D Certification. Meanwhile, the limited edition DLA-20LTD is being released to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the development of the D-ILA device. The projector will feature a red body and an industry leading native contrast ratio of 200,000:1. The JVC DLA-X990RBK/RS640K ($7,999.95), DLA-X790RBK/RS540K ($5,999.95), and DLA-X590RBK/RS440K ($3,999.95) are all set to launch in October. Pricing and availability for the limited edition DLA-20LTD will be announced at a later date. Source: JVCPosted Fri Sep 8, 2017 at 09:00 AM PDT by: -
Pioneer and Onkyo Debut New AV Receivers at CEDIA 2017[teaser]Two new immersive audio receivers have been detailed.[/teaser] Pioneer and Onkyo have revealed their product lineups for CEDIA 2017. The collections include the newly announced Pioneer Elite SC-LX502 Network AV Receiver and Onkyo TX-RZ920 Network AV Receiver. First up, the Pioneer Elite SC-LX502 is a 7.2 channel model rated for 120 W/ch (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.08 % THD, 2ch Driven, FTC). The unit features Class D3 (Direct Energy HD) Amplification and uses a premium AKM AK4458 768 kHz/32-bit DAC. Likewise, the receiver includes support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats, along with Hi-Res audio playback for Direct DSD 11.2 MHz/5.6 MHz/2.8 MHz, DSD 5.6 MHz/2.8 MHz with PCM conversion, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, and Apple Lossless to 192 kHz/24-bit resolution. HDMI connections with 4K/60p, 4:4:4 24-bit video pass-through, HDCP 2.2, HDR10, HLG (Hybrid-Log Gamma), Dolby Vision, and BT.2020 wide color gamut support are integrated as well. Meanwhile, the Onkyo TX-RZ920 Network AV Receiver is a 9.2 channel model rated for 135 W/Ch (8 Ohms, 1 kHz, 0.08%, 2-channels driven, FTC), offering native support for 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configurations. Likewise, the receiver includes 11.2-multi-channel pre-outs and processing to enable 7.2.4 speaker setups with an additional stereo power amp. In addition, the unit features modular analog and digital circuit blocks, custom-fabricated transformer, and massive factory-tuned block capacitors. Finally, hi-res audio playback and 4K/60p, 4:4:4 24-bit video pass-through with HDCP 2.2, HDR10, HLG (Hybrid-Log Gamma), Dolby Vision, and BT.2020 wide color gamut support are offered as well. The Pioneer Elite SC-LX502 Network AV Receiver ($1,099) and Onkyo TX-RZ920 Network AV Receiver ($1,599) are both set to start shipping later this month. Sources: Pioneer, OnkyoPosted Fri Sep 8, 2017 at 08:00 AM PDT by: -
Epson Details Home Cinema LS100 Laser Display[teaser]The Full HD ultra-short throw projector model is designed to sit just inches from a user's wall.[/teaser] Epson has announced the latest addition to its Home Cinema projector lineup. The new Home Cinema LS100 Full HD 3LCD Ultra Short-Throw Laser Display is set to launch in the fall for a suggested retail price of $2,999. "The Home Cinema LS100 Digital Laser Display is designed to allow people to enjoy life-size images in Full HD up to 10 feet diagonal with the lights on and the shades open – all at a fraction of the cost of a 120-inch traditional flat panel display," said Rodrigo Catalan, senior product manager, Projectors, Epson America. "With the Home Cinema LS100, families don't have to worry about the limitations of traditional home projection systems, such as shadows when walking in front of the projected image." The projector is designed to serve as a compact living room solution for big-screen entertainment with ultra-short throw, "No Shadow" projection and simple cable management. Under the hood, the unit uses Epson's 3LCD design and laser technology, offering 4,000 lumens of equal color and white brightness for 100 percent color brightness, and a contrast ratio up to 2,500,000:1. Likewise, the device provides support for projecting Full HD images up to 10-feet diagonal with or without a screen, and the lamp-free light source is rated for up to 10 or more years of performance. Three HDMI ports are integrated as well for connecting cable/satellite boxes, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and other media players. Epson's Home Cinema LS100 Full HD 3LCD Ultra Short-Throw Laser Display is currently on display at the company's CEDIA Expo 2017 booth in San Diego. Source: EpsonPosted Fri Sep 8, 2017 at 07:00 AM PDT by: -
'War for the Planet of the Apes' Announced for Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D, and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray[teaser]The "certified fresh" third film in the hit sci-fi franchise will be charging to home video this October.[/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, 20th Century Fox is preparing War for the Planet of the Apes for Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, and Blu-ray 3D on October 24. Andy Serkis returns as Caesar in the thrilling and climatic chapter of the PLANET OF THE APES saga as Caesar and his apes are forced into a deadly conflict with an army of humans led by a ruthless Colonel (Woody Harrelson). After suffering unimaginable losses, Caesar resolves to avenge his kind, pitting him against the Colonel for a final showdown that will determine the future of the planet! Special features include exclusive deleted scenes with optional audio commentary by director Matt Reeves, behind-the-scenes featurettes, including “All About Caesar,” which focuses on Andy Serkis and his incredible performances through the three films as Caesar, bringing his character and his journey to life. Additionally, the digital version of the film includes 10 Scene Comparisons, showing a side-by-side exploration of the actors’ performance captures above the final scenes in the film. You can find the latest specs for War for the Planet of the Apes linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule and our Ultra HD Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under October 24. Order the Ultra HD Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the 3D Blu-rayPosted Fri Sep 8, 2017 at 06:49 AM PDT by: -
VIZIO Expands SmartCast TV Support to 2016 E-Series, M-Series, and P-Series 4K Ultra HD Displays[teaser]Users can now access apps directly on their 2016 UHD displays.[/teaser] Following recent updates for the company's 2017 lineup, VIZIO has announced the expansion of SmartCast TV support to its 2016 E-Series, M-Series, and P-Series Ultra HD displays in the US and Canada. The upgraded user experience offers two ways for customers to control streaming content, adding the option for on-screen app navigation with the new VIZIO SmartCast remote. Previously, users could only access apps by casting them from a separate mobile device or tablet remote. "TV shows, music and movies can now be accessed in multiple ways thanks to VIZIO SmartCast TV," said Bill Baxter, Senior Vice President, Engineering, VIZIO. "With favorite apps such as FandangoNOW on the big screen, SmartCast TV really is the ideal solution for traditional TV loyalists, second screen users and digital natives. Not only can users access content via a dedicated remote control, but SmartCast Mobile makes it easy for those who want to search and control their viewing experience on their mobile devices." With the SmartCast TV update, users can now access settings and a new home screen with content recommendations and popular apps like Amazon Video, Crackle, Hulu, iHeartRadio, Netflix, Pluto TV, Vudu, XUMO, and new addition FandangoNOW directly on their displays. In addition, the "Discover" section aggregates trending and popular content from multiple sources all in one place, letting customers browse titles without having to switch between different apps. Likewise, users can also continue to use their mobile devices to access and control content and settings as well. The SmartCast TV upgrade is now rolling out to 2016 VIZIO E-Series, M-Series, and P-Series Ultra HD Displays through an internet update. To access the SmartCast TV experience users with previously purchased eligible displays might need the new VIZIO SmartCast remote. For a limited time and while supplies last, owners of eligible models can receive the new VIZIO SmartCast remote either free or for a nominal fee by visiting vizio.com/remote (some conditions apply). Source: VIZIOPosted Fri Sep 8, 2017 at 06:00 AM PDT by: -
Blue Underground's 'Amsterdamned' Blu-ray Disc ReplacementBlue Underground has made an official announcement regarding their recently restored in 2K Blu-ray release of Dick Maas' 'Amsterdamned.' The official announcement is as follows: "After the Amsterdamned Blu-ray was shipped to customers, we were made aware of some minor compression issues. Therefore, we corrected and will be offering a replacement V2 Blu-ray disc. If you purchased Amsterdamned and the Blu-ray Disc Art does not have Item# "BLU-BD-7072-V2" on it, you may request a replacement Blu-ray Disc by sending an email to [email protected]. You MUST include the following information in your email to qualify for a replacement disc: *Your Name *Complete Mailing Address (including country if outside the U.S.) *Copy of sales receipt showing purchase of the AMSTERDAMNED Collector's Edition The V2 Blu-ray Discs will be available to mail out in approximately 4 weeks. We thank you for your continued support and patience! The Lift and Down Blu-ray releases have been slightly delayed to ensure they don't have the same issue."Posted Thu Sep 7, 2017 at 09:14 AM PDT by:
