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Disney Reportedly Set to Launch 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Support with 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2'[teaser]The Marvel sequel could be the studio's first 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release.[/teaser] According to a report from The Digital Bits, Disney is gearing up to finally enter the 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray market, and the company's first disc could be Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Though nothing has been confirmed yet, several signs point toward the rumors being true. First up, the film's director, James Gunn, has stated his desire for the movie to be released on the 4K format along with Dolby Vision HDR support. On that note, industry sources have told The Digital Bits that Disney has been holding off on supporting 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray until Dolby Vision capabilities become more common among AV products -- and with players from Oppo, LG, and Philips all currently available with or set to receive future Dolby Vision support, and several Ultra HD displays from LG, Sony, VIZIO, and TCL all on sale with the tech, that time may have finally arrived. In addition, certain digital titles are reportedly being reclassified on the Disney Movies Anywhere platform, which could point toward new 4K listings being added to the system for select movies. And, perhaps most tellingly, the Australian retailer Sanity, and the Best Buy Canada website both added listings for a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 -- though both listings appear to have been removed. Official word is still forthcoming, but full details on Disney's home video plans for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 are expected to be announced in the coming few weeks, with an August release date most likely. Source: The Digital BitsPosted Mon Jun 12, 2017 at 05:40 PM PDT by: -
What is VR? -- Everything You Need to Know About Virtual RealityKeeping track of the latest audio and video tech can be daunting. Thankfully, High-Def Digest has you covered. Welcome to Home Theater 101 series, where we'll be explaining emerging technologies while also recommending the very best possible A/V gadgets n' gear you can buy at your particular budget level. When it comes to recent immersive tech and gaming advancements, few are as buzzworthy as VIRTUAL REALITY. But just what exactly is VR? And which headset is right for you? Fret not! [teaser]If you don't know the difference between an Oculus Rift and a Daydream View, this guide is here to breakdown the ins and outs of Virtual Reality.[/teaser] So, without further ado, let's dive right into... HOME THEATER 101WHAT IS VIRTUAL REALITY? THE BASICS While virtual reality in some form or another has been around for decades, the format has recently seen a major revival and performance overhaul as display and computing technologies have advanced -- providing a new level of immersion that is a far cry from the blurry, pixelated mess one might have experienced in arcades back in the 90s. In its basic form, modern VR essentially consists of a high-resolution stereoscopic headset display with motion tracking. Likewise, some VR setups also include external motion controllers, binaural audio solutions, and more advanced spatial room sensors. But just what do all of these elements bring to the equation? Well, a high-res stereoscopic headset features separate lenses for the left and right eye, allowing a user to view VR images, video, and interactive experiences in full 3D -- just like one would with traditional 3D glasses you find in cinemas and home theaters. But unlike traditional 3D, a VR headset combines stereoscopic output with head tracking technology (either internal or external), a first person perspective, and a wide field of view (FOV) for peripheral vision, letting users turn their heads in order to shift their perspectives up, down, and around 360-degrees -- creating the sense that what you are seeing is actually all around you. Various external motion controllers then bring another level of interactivity to the experience, enabling hand gestures, and button presses to enable touch, movement, and selection of virtual items. Meanwhile, binaural audio technologies, including Dolby Atmos and DTS Headphone:X, allow sounds to move around a listener's head in a 3D virtual space through headphones, further enhancing the sense of immersion. Finally, more advanced VR rigs also include spatial sensors or some other form of body tracking for room scale virtual reality, actually allowing users to move around a real room to accomplish movement in a virtual space. Alternatively, walking can also be simulated through omnidirectional treadmills or similar devices. HEADSETS With growing support from numerous manufacturers and tech companies -- including Google, Samsung, Sony, Facebook, and HTC -- there's now several competing Virtual Reality hardware and software platforms on the market. And when it comes to headset models, there are two primary hardware types: headsets with built-in displays and headsets with smartphone displays. Headsets that feature integrated displays of their own usually require an external PC, laptop, or game console to power them. And though these models tend to be more expensive, their support for powerful computer and GPU hardware allows them to achieve the best performance. Meanwhile, smartphone compatible models typically use an inserted mobile device's display and processing power to run. And while these solutions are usually more affordable than headsets with integrated displays and PC requirements, they are also hindered by comparatively limited smartphone specs. In addition, some fully standalone VR headsets that feature their own integrated displays and hardware solutions without the need for separate computers or smartphones are also in the works. Here's a rundown of some of the main VR headsets available now or coming soon. Note: All listed prices reflect current retailer discounts at press time and do not include taxes. Samsung Gear VR ($106) - Samsung's current Gear VR headset is designed to be used with a Galaxy S8, S8+, S7, S7 edge, Note5, S6 edge+, S6 or S6 edge smartphone. Users simply need to connect their mobile device and lock it in place to start experiencing VR with up to a 2960 x 1440 resolution AMOLED display (S8). The headset features 42mm lenses with a 101-degree FOV (Field of View), and advanced distortion correction technology to minimize motion sickness. The device supports both micro USB and USB Type-C ports with a converter in-box. In addition, the 2017 headset comes with a new motion controller with touchpad and trigger for enhanced interaction, along with a strap to hold it in place when not in use. And though the headset does allow audio playback from a connected smartphone's integrated speakers, users will need separate headphones for binaural audio support. The Gear VR is powered by the Oculus mobile VR platform. It does not currently support room-scale VR. Google Daydream View ($70) - The Daydream View requires a Daydream-ready smartphone like the Google Pixel or Motorola Moto Z. Likewise, the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8+ will also soon be supported. With the Pixel XL model, the headset sports a QHD 1440×2560 AMOLED display with an FOV (Field of View) of about 90-degrees. The Daydream View is available in Slate, Crimson, or Snow colors and is made with flexible and soft breathable fabrics, allowing the device to be 30% lighter than similar products while providing added comfort. To use the Daydream View, customers simply need to drop in a Daydream-ready smartphone and lock it into place. From there, the phone and headset connect wirelessly with an auto alignment system. In addition, the product includes a compact controller packed with sensors, letting customers interact with content through movements and gesture. And when not in use, the controller can slide right inside the headset for easy storage. Though the headset does allow audio playback from a connected smartphone's integrated speakers, users will need separate headphones for binaural audio support. The Daydream View uses Google's Daydream VR platform. It does not currently support room scale VR. Standalone Daydream Headsets - In addition to smartphone Daydream devices, the first standalone Daydream headsets are set to be released later this year. Standalone headset models will not require a smartphone or PC, and will instead use their own integrated displays and hardware optimized for VR. Daydream standalone headsets will also use new headset 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. Google has partnered with Qualcomm to create the standalone headset reference design, and upcoming standalone Daydream headsets are in development from HTC VIVE and Lenovo. Oculus Rift ($500) - Designed for use with Windows PCs and laptops, the Oculus Rift features a 2160 x 1200 OLED display (1080×1200 per eye) with a 90Hz refresh rate and a 110-degree FOV (Field of View). Built-in audio, an integrated mic, and an Xbox One controller are included as well. And in addition to the headset itself, a bundle with two Oculus Touch motion controllers ($598) is also available. Sensors for movement tracking are included with the headset and controllers as well, but buyers will need a third sensor for room-scale VR. Recommended PC specs: Graphics Card - NVIDIA GTX 1060 / AMD Radeon RX 480 or greater Alternative Graphics Card - NVIDIA GTX 970 / AMD Radeon R9 290 or greater CPU - Intel i5-4590 / AMD Ryzen 5 1500X or greater Memory - 8GB+ RAM Video Output - Compatible HDMI 1.3 video output USB Ports - 3x USB 3.0 ports plus 1x USB 2.0 port OS - Windows 7 SP1 64 bit or newer HTC Vive ($799) - Like the Oculus Rift, the HTC Vive is designed for use with Windows PCs and laptops (though Mac support is on the way), and the headset also features a 2160 x 1200 OLED display (1080×1200 per eye) with a 90Hz refresh rate and a 110-degree FOV (Field of View). Unlike the Oculus Rift, however, the default HTC Vive package is ready for room-scale VR right out of the box, with two wireless controllers and two base stations. In addition, the standard bundle also includes a link box, earbuds, integrated mic, Vive accessories, safety guide, and warranty card. Recommended PC specs: Processor - Intel Core i5-4590 or AMD FX 8350, equivalent or better Graphics - NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 480, equivalent or better. Memory - 4 GB RAM or more Video output - 1x HDMI 1.4 port, or DisplayPort 1.2 or newer USB - 1x USB 2.0 port or newer Operating system - Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8.1 or later or Windows 10 PlayStation VR ($387) - Designed for use with a PS4 and PlayStation Camera, the PS VR headset features a 1920×RGB×1080 (960×RGB×1080 per eye) OLED display with a 110-degree FOV (Field of View) and a 90Hz refresh rate (120Hz in cinema mode). The default package also includes the Processor unit, PlayStation VR headset connection cable, HDMI cable, USB cable, Stereo headphones, AC power cord, AC adaptor, and PlayStation VR Demo Disc. In addition, a bundle ($500) with the required camera, two Move controllers, and the PlayStation VR Worlds game is available as well. Limited room scale VR is supported. CONTENT Even the fanciest VR headset is pretty useless without worthwhile content available. Thankfully, game developers, filmmakers, and various media companies are starting to embrace virtual reality with a growing library of VR experiences through several platforms and gaming solutions like the Oculus Store and SteamVR. Some popular PC and PlayStation VR titles currently include games like Job Simulator, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, Batman: Arkham VR, Minecraft VR, and Star Trek: Bridge Crew. Likewise, many streaming services like YouTube, Hulu, and Netflix have also started to offer some VR content support as well, though the latter currently only lets you watch standard videos in a virtual environment. Native VR videos, however, typically come in the form of full stereoscopic 3D 360-degree interactive or passive experiences -- though the quality of these titles can vary wildly. And that's where companies like Legend come into play. Known for their visual effects work and 2D to 3D conversions, Legend is also now a prominent fixture in the emerging VR scene, where they are involved in the creative development, on-set production, and post-production of VR content, helping clients realize their budgets on screen while utilizing the tech and storytelling tools of VR to their fullest. For this feature, Will Maurer, Legend 3D's VP of VR and VFX, was kind enough to speak with us, offering an overview of Legend's work and the company's overarching approach to the evolving VR platform. "I think there's a lot of opportunities in VR from the storytelling space. And I call it experiential storytelling, because you can't take the traditional filmmaking techniques and force it into VR," said Maurer. Instead, he recommends companies really ask themselves, "Why VR?" before approaching the format. Otherwise, users could simply be left with a lackluster experience that leaves them asking, "Why do I have this thing on my head?" On the unique aspects of experiential storytelling, Maurer described VR cinema as being "almost a melding of a game and a narrative going back to branching narratives or choose your own adventure books." This type of multi-path storytelling also offers a lot of potential for replay and re-watch value. "In the simplest form, you're watching an argument in front of you. One person goes to the left and one person goes to the right. I have a choice to follow one of them and then see where their story branches to or continues and then I can go back and re-watch the piece... and choose the other perspective." And on the subject of whether or not there are any key technical requirements for compelling VR content, Maurer stressed the importance of stereoscopic imagery and 3D spatial sound, along with a need to keep compression to a minimum while seamlessly blending stitching and effects work. In essence, once the separate elements and imperfections of a video become visible, the sense of immersion really starts to collapse, and Legend is working hard with its clients to ensure that this doesn't happen. In addition to 3D video and audio, emerging tech like HDR (high dynamic range) may also find its way into more future virtual reality content. In fact, the company recently worked on a 3D 360-degree content piece for REX Real Estate that was captured in HDR with a Red Epic camera. Other advances on the horizon also have Maurer especially intrigued about the future possibilities of VR experiences, including developments with room-scale VR. "I'm excited about volumetric capture. For instance, in the concert space or the sports space where you can actually go up and feel like you're in the same room and environment and actually move around." But rather than scour through hundreds of clips on VR app stores with smartphone headsets, Maurer actually sees a lot of potential in emerging VR arcades and venues like the new IMAX VR Centers in New York and LA. "Going back to malls and airports and movie theaters, I think that's the perfect opportunity for a captive audience. I think they trust going somewhere and paying that they are going to see quality content." Of course, that's not to say that you can't find plenty of quality VR experiences right now if you know where to look. On that note, if you'd like to see some of Legend's VR content for yourself, be sure to check out the Kong: Destination Skull Island VR experience that the company recently worked on with ILM. He gets so close you can almost feel his breath. So, there you have it. Those are the basics of Virtual Reality. If you still have any questions about VR, please let us know in the forums! MORE HOME THEATER 101 ARTICLES -Best Dolby Atmos Speakers for 2017-Best Budget TVs for 2017-Best UHD TVs for 2017-What is Dolby Vision?-What is HDR?-What is Dolby Atmos?-What is DTS:X-Best Sound Bars-Up-mixed: Dolby Surround vs DTS:Neural:XPosted Mon Jun 12, 2017 at 10:44 AM PDT by: -
Streaming News Roundup: 'Gypsy, 'Oh, Hello Broadway,' and More[teaser]A new Netflix drama starring Naomi Watts and a Broadway show from Nick Kroll and John Mulaney are among the latest streaming announcements.[/teaser] Netflix has released new trailers, date announcements, and other info for several of their upcoming shows and movies, including Gypsy, Oh Hello Broadway, Chasing Coral, The Ranch, Alexa and Katie, and The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson. Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: Oh Hello Broadway (Netflix, June 13) - Gil Faizon (Nick Kroll) and George St. Geegland (John Mulaney) bring their hit Broadway show to Netflix. Two delusional geriatrics reveal curious pasts, share a love of tuna and welcome a surprise guest in this filming of the popular Broadway comedy show. Oh, Hello on Broadway is produced by RadicalMedia; it's written, performed and executive produced by Nick Kroll and John Mulaney, and directed and produced by Michael John Warren. Dave Sirulnick, Jon Kamen, and Justin Wilkes executive produced for RadicalMedia. Alex Timbers, Dave Becky, Mike Berkowitz, Julie Darmody, David Miner and Christie Smith also served as executive producers. Lisa Nishimura and Robbie Praw executive produced for Netflix. The Ranch: Part 3 (Netflix, June 16) - Set in the present day on a Colorado ranch, THE RANCH stars Ashton Kutcher as Colt, a failed semi-pro football player who returns home to run the family ranching business with his older brother Jameson "Rooster" (Danny Masterson) and father Beau (Sam Elliott), whom he hasn't seen in 15 years. Debra Winger stars as Colt's and Rooster's mother, Maggie, who runs the local town bar. Don Reo (Two and Half Men, My Wife and Kids) and Jim Patterson (Two and a Half Men, Mike and Molly) executive produce. Kutcher and Masterson also serve as executive producers. Gypsy (Netlifx June 30) - The ten-part psychological thriller focuses on Jean Halloway (Naomi Watts), a Manhattan therapist with a seemingly picturesque life who begins to develop intimate and illicit relationships with the people in her patients' lives. As the borders of Jean's professional life and personal fantasies become blurred, she descends into a world where the forces of desire and reality are disastrously at odds. In addition to Watts, Gypsy also stars Billy Crudup (Spotlight) as Jean's husband Michael Halloway, Sophie Cookson (Kingsman) as Sydney, Lucy Boynton (Murder on the Orient Express) as Jean's patient Allison, and Karl Glusman (Nocturnal Animals) and Jean's patient Sam. Chasing Coral (Netflix, July 14) - Taps into the collective will and wisdom of an ad man, a self-proclaimed coral nerd, top-notch camera designers, and renowned marine biologists as they invent the first time-lapse camera to record bleaching events as they happen. Unfortunately, the effort is anything but simple, and the team doggedly battles technical malfunctions and the force of nature in pursuit of their golden fleece: documenting the indisputable and tragic transformation below the waves. With its breathtaking photography, nail-biting suspense, and startling emotion Chasing Coral is a dramatic revelation that won’t have audiences sitting idle for long. The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (Netflix, Later this year) - When Marsha P. Johnson, the beloved, self-described "street queen" of NYC's gay ghetto, was found floating in the Hudson River in 1992, the NYPD refused to investigate. Instead, they chalked it up to suicide, a widely dismissed conclusion, and left the mystery to fester for decades. Having played a pivotal role in the Stonewall Riots of 1969, Marsha and fellow icon Sylvia Rivera went on to form the world's first trans-rights organization, STAR (Street Transvestites Action Revolutionaries) in 1970. And despite their many challenges over the years – harassment, homelessness, alcoholism - Marsha and Sylvia ignited a powerful and lasting civil rights movement for gender nonconforming people. Now, 25 years after her untimely death, at a time of unprecedented visibility for, and escalating violence against, the transgender community, veteran crime-victim advocate Victoria Cruz has taken it upon herself to reexamine what happened to Marsha and measure the challenges that still face the community. The film follows as this intrepid champion pursues leads, mobilizes officials, and raises troubling new questions about a famous cold case. Along the way she burnishes the political legacy of a celebrated historical figure. "Almost single-handedly, Marsha P. Johnson and her best friend Sylvia Rivera touched off a revolution in the way we talk about gender today," said David France. "Their names should be household words. But Marsha’s life was cut tragically short and Sylvia died shortly thereafter, the victim of a broken heart. Getting to know their story through the investigation undertaken by Victoria Cruz, a seminal activist in her own right, has been one of the great honors of my career. Now, with Netflix as our distribution partner, I am confident the legacy of these tremendous women will never be forgotten." Finally, Netflix has announced the addition of Tiffani Thiessen (Dinner at Tiffani’s, White Collar) to the cast of Alexa & Katie. Thiessen will join the series as Lori the determined and protective mother of one of the lead characters. The show is a multi-cam comedy about two lifelong best friends eagerly anticipating the start of their freshman year of highschool. The friends confront a crisis that leaves them feeling like outsiders, at a time when what seems to matter most is fitting in. Alexa and Katie also stars Paris Berelc (Mighty Med, Lab Rats: Elite Force) and newcomer Isabel May, who play the title characters respectively. The series was created by Heather Wordham (Hannah Montana, Reba). Matthew Carlson (Malcolm in the Middle, Samantha Who?) is on board as showrunner. In addition, Wordham and Carlson are listed as executive producers. The 13-episode first season is set to premiere in 2018. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Sources: Netflix 1, Netflix 2, Netflix (YouTube)Posted Sun Jun 11, 2017 at 07:00 PM PDT by: -
Blu-ray News Roundup: 'The Outer Limits,' 'Colossal,' New Olive Films Titles, and More[teaser]There is nothing wrong with your monitor. Do not attempt to adjust the picture. The Outer Limits and more are coming to Blu-ray.[/teaser] New info has been revealed for several upcoming Blu-ray releases from Olive Films, Universal, Warner Bros., Visual Entertainment Group, Mill Creek, and Kino. Here's a full rundown of recently revealed details and title announcements: First up, Olive Films has announced five titles set for release on June 27. The lineup includes... Anthony B. Richmond's Deja Vu starring Jaclyn Smith, Nigel Terry, and Shelley Winters. Supplements have not been revealed at this time. George Marshall's Money From Home starring Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis, and Marjie Millar. Supplements have not been revealed at this time. Nicholas Ray's The Savage Innocents starring Anthony Quinn, Yôko Tani, and Carlo Giustini. Supplements have not been revealed at this time. Zelda Barron's Shag starring Phoebe Cates, Bridget Fonda, and Scott Coffey. Supplements have not been revealed at this time. Jeff Hathcock's Victims! starring Ava Kauffman, Robert Axelrod, and Lonny Withers. Supplements will include: -Audio commentary with director Jeff Hathcock and Slasher Video's Jesus Terán-Interview with director Jeff Hathcock-Photo Gallery-Trailer Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Visual Entertainment Group has revealed plans to bring Diagnosis Murder: Season 3 starring Dick Van Dyke, Victoria Rowell, and Charlie Schlatter to Blu-ray on June 30. No other details have been revealed yet. Order the Blu-ray Meanwhile, Universal is prepping Nacho Vigalondo's Colossal starring Anne Hathaway, Jason Sudeikis, Dan Stevens, Austin Stowell, Tim Blake Nelson, and Rukiya Bernard for Blu-ray on August 1. Supplements will include Deleted Scenes. Order the Blu-ray Mill Creek is set to release Blackbeard starring Angus Macfadyen, Mark Umbers, and Jessica Chastain on August 1. Likewise, the label will also release The Poseidon Adventure starring Adam Baldwin, Rutger Hauer, Steve Guttenberg, Bryan Brown, C. Thomas Howell, and Peter Weller on August 1. Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Warner Bros. is bringing Longmire: The Complete Fifth Season starring Robert Taylor, Katee Sackhoff, Lou Diamond Phillips, Cassidy Freeman, Adam Bartley, and Louanne Stephensto to Blu-ray on September 26. No supplements have been detailed at this time. In addition, the studio will bring J. Mills Goodloe's Everything, Everything starring Amandla Stenberg, Nick Robinson, Anika Noni Rose, Ana de la Reguera, and Taylor Hickson to Blu-ray later this year. Pre-orders are now live but an exact release date and supplements have not been announced yet. Order the Blu-ray Finally, Kino has announced plans to release The Outer Limits: The Complete Original Series on Blu-ray. The show will be available in two box sets. The Season 1 box set will include 32 episodes spread across 8 discs and is set to start shipping later this year. Meanwhile, the Season 2 box set will include 17 episodes spread across 5 discs and is set for an early 2018 release. Full specs and supplements have not been announced yet, but the transfers will be sourced from brand new HD masters. You can find the latest specs for all of the titles listed above linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule.Posted Fri Jun 9, 2017 at 10:20 PM PDT by: -
Marvel Debuts Teaser Trailer for 'Black Panther'[teaser]King T'Challa is heading to theaters with his first solo film in February.[/teaser] Marvel has released the first teaser trailer for Black Panther. The film comes from director Ryan Coogler and is set to premiere on February 16, 2018. After the events of Captain America: Civil War, King T'Challa returns home to the reclusive, technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to serve as his country's new leader. However, T'Challa soon finds that he is challenged for the throne from factions within his own country. When two foes conspire to destroy Wakanda, the hero known as Black Panther must team up with C.I.A. agent Everett K. Ross and members of the Dora Milaje, Wakanadan special forces, to prevent Wakanda from being dragged into a world war. Check out the official teaser trailer below! The movie stars Chadwick Boseman as T'Challa / Black Panther, Michael B. Jordan as Erik Killmonger, Lupita Nyong'o as Nakia, Danai Gurira as Okoye, Martin Freeman as Everett K. Ross, Daniel Kaluuya as W'Kabi, Angela Bassett as Ramonda, Forest Whitaker as Zuri, Andy Serkis as Ulysses Klaue / Klaw, Florence Kasumba as Ayo, John Kani as King T'Chaka, Winston Duke as M'Baku / Man-Ape, Sterling K. Brown as N'Jobu, and Letitia Wright as Shuri. The character first made his Marvel Cinematic debut in Captain America: Civil War. Writing credits include Joe Robert Cole and Ryan Coogler, who based the script on the comic book created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Other upcoming Marvel films include Spider-Man: Homecoming which is set to premiere on July 7 and Thor: Ragnarok which is set to premiere on November 3. Source: Marvel (YouTube)Posted Fri Jun 9, 2017 at 10:00 PM PDT by: -
Samsung Launches New QLED Monitors with HDR and Quantum Dots[teaser]Three new HDR displays geared toward gaming have been detailed.[/teaser] Samsung has announced the latest additions to its gaming monitor lineup. The new QLED display collection includes the ultra-wide 49-inch CHG90, the 27-inch CHG70 , and the 32-inch CHG70. "Gamers want to feel completely immersed when they play, and our new monitors provide the most stunning visuals to deliver the ultimate gaming experience," said Andrew Sivori, VP, Product Marketing at Samsung Electronics America. "These QLED gaming monitors represent the future of gaming for both casual and dedicated players alike, and we're confident that our innovative design and state-of-the-art features will enhance the entire gaming arena." All three displays use QLED Quantum Dot technology (also available in the company's 2017 QLED Ultra HD TV lineup) with a new metal core and support for 125 percent of the sRGB color space and 95 percent of the DCI-P3 color space. Likewise, the monitors all offer HDR (high dynamic range) capabilities with 600 nits of brightness, AMD's new Radeon FreeSync 2 technology, a curvature of 1,800R, a 178-degree viewing angle, a rapid 1ms response time, and a 144hz screen refresh rate. In addition, the 49-inch CHG90 model features a resolution of 3,840x1,080 and an ultra-wide 32:9 aspect ratio, while the CHG70 models feature a resolution of 2560x1440 and a 16:9 aspect ratio. The 49-inch CHG90 is now available for pre-order on Amazon.com and at local Micro Center retail stores for an MSRP of $1,499. Meanwhile, the 32-inch CHG70 is available for pre-order exclusively through Newegg.com for $699, and the 27-inch CHG70 is available for pre-order through Samsung.com for $599. In addition, the 32-inch CHG70 will be on display at Ubisoft's booth during the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) next week. Source: SamsungPosted Fri Jun 9, 2017 at 04:30 PM PDT by: -
HD Gear News Roundup: SI Projector Screens, BenQ Monitors, VIZIO Displays, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including new projector screens and monitors.[/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 new XL projector screens from Screen Innovations, new monitors from BenQ, the Canadian launch of VIZIO's 2017 P-Series Ultra HD display collection, and a browser support update for DirecTV Now. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Screen Innovations Launches Black Diamond XL, Slate XL, and Solar XL Screens Screen Innovations has announced the launch of its latest projector screens. The lineup includes new XL sizes for its Black Diamond, Slate, and Solar projector screens geared toward the residential and commercial markets. "Even though we continue to push screen technology further with innovations like our new XL line of screen materials and our totally unique Zero-G screen," said Blake Vackar, VP of Commercial Sales, "our biggest innovation is still in how we do business. Innovative, simple, fun. That’s our motto." Vackar continued, "We have been in our customers' shoes and we understand the importance of answering the phone immediately or getting a drawing out in minutes—not days. Come and see what makes Screen Innovations Innovative, Simple, and Fun." The new Black Diamond XL screen utilizes microscopic stacked optical layers to offer ambient light rejecting properties. Previously, Black Diamond screens were limited to 60-inches in height, but the Black Diamond XL increases the maximum height to 76-inches tall, providing support for a seamless, 150-inch diagonal 16:9 optical screen. Meanwhile, SI has announced a new Slate XL variation as well, expanding the original 106-inch height limitation to a new maximum material height of 189-inches by 2900-inches wide, enabling the creation of a 371-inch diagonal ALR screen in 16:9 without a seam. Finally, the company's Solar White and Gray screen materials are also getting an XL size with a maximum material height of 189-inches by 2900-inches wide. The Screen Innovations Black Diamond XL is set to start shipping in August 2017, while the Slate XL and Solar White and Gray will start ship in September 2017. Source: Screen Innovations BenQ Details G80 Series Monitors BenQ has announced its new G80 Series of monitors. The lineup includes the GW2480, GL2580H, GL2580HM, and GW2780, offering sizes ranging from 24-inches to 27-inches. "The G80 Series monitors embody the latest in BenQ design sensibility," said Conway Lee, President of BenQ Corporation. "Their beautifully graceful forms seamlessly integrate natural functionality to promote utter simplicity in daily life and work." The monitors feature LED LCD screens with Full HD 1080p resolution, edge to edge ultra slim bezels just 6.6 mm thin, and a new minimalist design finished with a premium texture. In addition, the series offers a choice between IPS panel technology with a 178˚ H/V wide viewing angle or TN panel technology for a fast 2ms response time. Likewise, the displays include BenQ-exclusive Low Blue Light and Flicker-Free technologies to reduce eye fatigue. The GW2480 and GW2780 models also offer class-leading Brightness Intelligence Technology for active brightness adjustments according to on-screen content and ambient light conditions. Finally, the monitors feature an invisible cable management system neatly hidden in each stand to help organize cable clutter. BenQ's GW2480, GL2580H, GL2580HM, and GW2780 G80 Series monitors are set to start shipping in Asia and Europe in June. Pricing and potential US availability have not been announced yet. Source: BenQ VIZIO Release 2017 P-Series Ultra HD Display Lineup in Canada Following the lineup's US launch, VIZIO has announced the release of its 2017 SmartCast P-Series Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro Display collection in Canada. Prices start at $1,799 (CAN) for the 55" model and units are now available online and in-store through Costco Canada. "With the P-Series, VIZIO's picture quality expertise really comes to life in the living room," said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. "We've combined XLED Pro, our most powerful full-array local dimming backlight, with a range of other premium technologies to push the boundaries of High Dynamic Range and dramatically enhance the viewing experience with added detail, color and contrast. With the introduction of SmartCast TV this summer, P-Series is definitely the collection to consider for those in search of excellent picture performance and a robust smart streaming experience." The P-Series features XLED Pro full-array local dimming backlight technology with Xtreme Black Engine Pro and up to 128 local dimming zones. In addition, the displays offer XHDR Pro with Dolby Vision and HDR10 content support, along with Ultra Color Spectrum, which provides over one billion colors. SmartCast capabilities are included as well, allowing customers to control their displays through the SmartCast mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Likewise, an update set for this summer will also enable users to browse streaming apps directly on the big screen with the included remote. Here's a rundown of models and Canadian pricing for the 2017 P-Series: 2017 VIZIO SmartCast P-Series 55" Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro Display (P55) MSRP $1,799 CAN 2017 VIZIO SmartCast P-Series 65" Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro Display (P65) MSRP $2,999 CAN 2017 VIZIO SmartCast P-Series 75" Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro Display (P75) MSRP $4,999 CAN Source: VIZIO DirecTV Now Selects Chrome as Exclusive Browser for Web Streaming According to a report from Apple Insider, AT&T will be terminating support for DirecTV Now streaming through Safari and Internet Explorer web browsers by the end of June. Instead, DirecTV Now web streaming will be available exclusively through Chrome. DirecTV Now is a stand-alone streaming platform that provides access to a variety of live channels and on-demand content, including more than 20,000 on-demand shows and movies on over 120 live channels like ABC, AMC, BBC America, Bravo, Comedy Central, Discovery, Fox, Fox News Channel, FX, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, MSNBC, NBC, TBS, TNT and many others through several programming packages starting at $35 per month. Sources: Apple Insider via EngadgetPosted Thu Jun 8, 2017 at 10:30 PM PDT by: -
Oppo Releases Dolby Vision Firmware Update for UDP-203 & UDP-205 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Players[teaser]Both Oppo Ultra HD Blu-ray player models now support Dolby Vision HDR.[/teaser] Oppo has announced the launch of a new Dolby Vision firmware update for its UDP-203 & UDP-205 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Players. The upgrade now makes Oppo's players the first to receive Dolby Vision Ultra HD Blu-ray disc support. "Delivering reference picture quality and a premium viewing experience has always been the core mission of OPPO's disc player products. We are thrilled to work with Dolby to incorporate Dolby Vision into our UHD disc players," said Jason Liao, CTO of OPPO Digital. "The home theater experience is even more lifelike and engaging with the astonishing brightness, contrast, and color provided by Dolby Vision." The UDP-203 & UDP-205 both provide 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc playback along with support for regular Blu-rays and DVDs. And in addition to the new Dolby Vision upgrade, both models also support HDR10 (High Dynamic Range) and Wide Color Gamut capabilities. Dolby Vision is a proprietary end-to-end High Dynamic Range (HDR) format that covers content creation and playback. 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 Dolby Vision material. And unlike standard HDR10, Dolby Vision uses dynamic metadata to adjust brightness levels on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis, offering a more accurate HDR experience. The OPPO UDP-203 and UDP-205 Dolby Vision firmware upgrade can now be downloaded by answering the update prompt on internet connected players or from the setup menu on internet connected players. Likewise, users who do not connect their players to the Internet can visit OPPO Digital’s web site and download the firmware file or request a firmware CD. The UDP-203 is now available for an MSRP of $549. The UDP-205 is now available for an MSRP of $1,299. Other Ultra HD Blu-ray players set to receive Dolby Vision firmware upgrades include the LG UP970 and the upcoming Philips BDP7502. New and upcoming Ultra HD Blu-ray discs encoded in Dolby Vision include Despicable Me, Despicable Me 2, Power Rangers, and Resident Evil: Vendetta. Order the Ultra HD Blu-ray Order the Ultra HD Blu-ray Order the UHD Blu-ray Source: Oppo via PR WebPosted Wed Jun 7, 2017 at 10:45 PM PDT by: -
Blu-ray News Roundup: 'Arrow,' 'Lethal Weapon,' 'Going in Style,' and More[teaser] Check out the latest crop of Blu-ray pre-orders and announcements.[/teaser] New info has been revealed for several upcoming Blu-ray releases from Warner Bros., 20th Century Fox, Universal, Well Go USA, Retromedia, Code Red, and Shout Factory. Here's a full rundown of recently revealed details and title announcements: First up, Warner Bros. is set to release Denise Di Novi's Unforgettable starring Katherine Heigl, Rosario Dawson, and Whitney Cummings on July 25. Supplements will include: -Reclaiming What's Yours: Making Unforgettable Featurette-Director's Commentary-Deleted Scene with Commentary In addition, the studio is prepping Zach Braff's Going in Style starring Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Alan Arkin, Joey King, and Ann-Margret for Blu-ray on August 1. The disc will feature: -Deleted Scenes-Director's Commentary by Zach Braff Likewise, the label will bring Arrow: The Complete Fifth Season starring Stephen Amell, David Ramsey, and Willa Holland to Blu-ray on September 19. Supplements will include: -Arrow: 2016 Comic-Con Panel-The New Team Arrow-Allied: The Invasion Complex (Arrow)-Returning to the Roots of Arrow: Prometheus-Deleted Scenes-Gag Reel Finally, Warner Bros. will also release Lethal Weapon: The Complete First Season starring Damon Wayans and Clayne Crawford on September 19. The Blu-ray will feature: -Deleted Scenes-Gag Reel-Reloading Lethal Weapon-Uncensored - Extended Pilot Episode Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray As previously reported, 20th Century Fox is prepping March Webb's Gifted starring Chris Evans, Mckenna Grace, and Lindsay Duncan for Blu-ray, and now the release date has been announced as July 25. Supplements will include: -Deleted Scenes-Featurettes-On Location: Gifted-Gallery Order the Blu-ray Well Go USA is set to release Buster's Mal Heart starring Rami Malek, DJ Qualls, and Kate Lyn Sheil on July 18. Supplements have been announced at this time. In addition, the label will bring Stanley Tong's Kung Fu Yoga starring Jackie Chan to Blu-ray on August 8. No other details have been revealed yet. Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Universal is prepping Joseph Ruben's The Ottoman Lieutenant starring Michiel Huisman, Hera Hilmar, Josh Hartnett, Ben Kingsley, Paul Barrett, and Jessica Turner for Blu-ray on August 1. Supplements have not been announced yet. Order the Blu-ray Retromedia has announced plans to release James Landis' Rat Fink starring Schuyler Haydn, Hal Bokar, Warrene Ott, and Eve Brenner on June 13. The Blu-ray will feature a new 2K restoration and supplements will include: -Remembering Schuyler Hayden - video featurette with Hayden's daughter, Ursula Hayden-Rat Fink: A Look Back - video featurette-Original 35mm trailer for the film Order the Blu-ray And rounding out this crop of announcements, Shout Factory has revealed three new Blu-ray titles for September... Liam Gavin's A Dark Song starring Susan Loughnane, Steve Oram, and Catherine Walker is due for release on September 5. Alan Rudolph's The Moderns: Collector's Edition starring Keith Carradine, Linda Fiorentino, and Wallace Shawn will arrive on September 19. Penelope Spheeris' Dudes: Collector's Edition starring Jon Cryer and Daniel Roebuck is also set for release on September 19. You can find the latest specs for all of the titles listed above linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule.Posted Wed Jun 7, 2017 at 08:20 PM PDT by: -
Klipsch Reveals Professional Series Reference Premiere Architectural Speakers[teaser]Several new in-wall and in-ceiling speaker models for the professional custom integration market have been detailed.[/teaser] Klipsch has announced the latest additions to its speaker lineup. The new Professional Series Reference Premiere Architectural speaker collection includes three in-wall models (PRO-160RPW, PRO-180RPW, and PRO-250RPW LCR) and two in-celling models (PRO-16RPC, PRO-180RPC). "This premium series is the first of four-new custom-install speaker lines that Klipsch will introduce this year," said Rob Standley, vice president and GM of component audio solutions. "We are excited to showcase approximately 30 new speaker solutions at CEDIA (Klipsch booth 4110) in September. This good, better, best model is available exclusively to our network of custom integrators as they provide the best installation, value, and experience to consumers," he continued. The Professional Series Reference Premiere Architectural speaker lineup is designed for the professional custom integration market, and combines the aesthetics of an architectural speaker with the award-winning acoustics of the Klipsch Reference Premiere home theater speaker collection. The speakers feature Tractrix horns for controlled directivity of high frequencies, a silicon composite coating to reduce high frequency resonance, titanium dome tweeters for minimized distortion, and Cerametallic woofers for powerful low frequencies. In addition, the series uses the new proprietary SecureFit two-piece modular installation system to provide a more robust, stable acoustic platform along with an easy one-personal installation. Finally, the speakers have been made to blend seamlessly into different environments, with flat, paintable, magnetic grilles that are bezel-free. Likewise, the in-ceiling models include both round and square grilles to fit any interior design. Exact pricing for the new Klipsch Professional Series Reference Premiere Architectural speaker lineup has not been announced yet. Source: KlipschPosted Wed Jun 7, 2017 at 10:40 AM PDT by:
