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John Badham's 'Saturday Night Fever: 40th Anniversary Edition' Blu-ray Detailed (UPDATED)[teaser]The classic film starring John Travolta will be returning to Blu-ray in May.[/teaser] In an early announcement to retailers, Paramount says 'Saturday Night Fever: 40th Anniversary Edition' will hit Blu-ray on May 2. From John Travolta's electrifying Oscar-nominated performance to the Bee Gees' top 10 soundtrack to the unforgettable dancing, Saturday Night Fever is a movie sensation that captured the world's attention like never before. Now catch the fever all over again with this 30th Anniversary Special Collector's Edition that goes behind-the-scenes with special features on the history, culture and fashion of disco, the smash-hit soundtrack, an exclusive look at Hollywood legend John Travolta, and so much more. Now more than ever before, Saturday Night Fever is the one film that'll make you feel like dancing. Director John Badham worked with Paramount in 2016 to restore the film in 4K using the original negative and update the surround sound mix to further enhance viewers' enjoyment of the incredible soundtrack. During this process he added scenes to the theatrical R-rated version that round out character and plot, making this new Director's Cut the definitive representation of his original vision. The release will include both the Director's Cut Version and the Theatrical Version and supplements include: Audio Commentary by director John Badham (Theatrical Version Only); '70s Discopedia (Theatrical Version Only); Catching the Fever; Back to Bay Ridge; Dance Like Travolta with John Cassese; Fever Challenge!; and Deleted Scenes. You can find the latest specs for 'Saturday Night Fever: 40th Anniversary Edition' linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule, where it's indexed under May 2. Order the Blu-rayPosted Fri Apr 28, 2017 at 09:16 AM PDT by: -
Blu-ray News Roundup: 'I Am Heath Ledger,' 'The Expanse: Season 2,' and More[teaser]New info for several Blu-ray titles have been announced. [/teaser] Universal, Lionsgate, Kino, Virgil Films and Entertainment, Music Box Films, and Shout Factory have all announced new information for their upcoming Blu-ray releases. Here's a full rundown of recently revealed details and title announcements: First up, Virgil Films and Entertainment is set to release Derik Murray's documentary film I Am Heath Ledger on May 23. No other details have been announced yet. Order the Blu-ray Next, Music Box Films is prepping Francois Ozon's war drama Frantz for Blu-ray on June 13. Supplements have not been detailed yet. Order the Blu-ray As previously reported, Lionsgate is preparing Osgood Perkins' The Blackcoat's Daughter starring Emma Roberts and Kiernan Shipkafor for Blu-ray on May 30. Newly announced supplements will include: - Audio Commentary with Writer-Director Osgood Perkins- "The Dead of Winter: Making The Blackcoat's Daughter" Featurette In addition, Lionsgate will release Yu-Gi-Oh!: The Dark Side of Dimensions on June 27. The Blu-ray will include: - "Show Us Your Cards" Featurette- "Dan Interview" Featurette- "Eric Interview" Featurette- "Cast's Favorite Moments" Featurette Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray As previously reported, Shout Factory is bringing Cheech & Chong's Next Movie to Blu-ray on June 13 and Walter Hill's Trespass: Collector's Edition to Blu-ray on June 27. Newly announced supplements for Cheech & Chong's Next Movie will include: - NEW Interview With Cheech Marin- Theatrical Trailer- Radio Spots Newly announced supplements for Trespass: Collector's Edition will include: - NEW "Fool's Gold" – An Interview With Actor William Sadler- NEW "Born Losers" – An Interview With Co-Writer Bob Gale- NEW "Wrongful Entry" – An Interview With Producer Neil Canton- NEW "Gang Violation" – The Stunts of Trespass- NEW "Trigger Happy" – The Weapons of Trespass- Vintage Featurette: "Behind The Scenes of Trespass"- Music Video- Deleted Scenes Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Universal is bringing The Magicians: Season Two starring Jason Ralph, Stella Maeve, and Olivia Taylor Dudley to Blu-ray on July 11. The release will feature: - Behind the Magic - featurette- Gag Reel Meanwhile, The Expanse: Season 2 starring Thomas Jane, Steven Strait, and Dominique Tipper will arrive on Blu-ray on July 18. Supplements have not been revealed yet. In addition, the studio is bringing Emerald City: Season One starring Adria Arjona, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, and Vincent D'Onofrio to Blu-ray on July 25. The disc will feature: - Oz Reimagined: The Making of Emerald City- Deleted Scenes Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Finally, Kino has announced plans to bring George Pavlou and Clive Barker's fantasy horror flick Rawhead Rex starring David Dukes, Kelly Piper, and Hugh O'Conor to Blu-ray later this year. No other details have been announced yet. You can find the latest specs for all of the titles above linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule.Posted Thu Apr 27, 2017 at 09:50 PM PDT by: -
Hands On First Look: VIZIO 2017 P-Series, M-Series, and Sound Bars[teaser]Earlier this week, High-Def Digest was invited to attend VIZIO's Spring 2017 Showcase. Held at the New York Edition Hotel in NYC, the event spotlighted the company's newest P-Series, M-Series, and E-Series SmartCast Ultra HD displays, along with its latest sound bars and speakers. [/teaser] Building upon the already impressive bang-for-your buck performance found on VIZIO's previous 2016 lineup, these new display models aim to deliver updated features and an improved SmartCast user experience -- all while maintaining advanced picture quality tech like HDR and local dimming at the affordable price points the company is known for. It should be noted, however, that like last year, the new displays do not include TV tuners. With different gear setup in various rooms, I was treated to a series of demos and head-to-head comparisons, pitting the VIZIO products against key competitors while highlighting some of the notable differences between each set. But just how well did these new models stack up? And can a P-Series display really hold its own against an inky black OLED panel? Well, let's dig right into it! Note: VIZIO displays are on the left side and competitors are on the right side in the comparison photos. And my apologies for the quality -- my smartphone camera isn't the best at capturing HDR brightness levels in dark rooms. E-SERIES First up, VIZIO put the spotlight on its latest entry-level E-Series displays. For demo purposes, the company pitted its E65-E0 65-inch SmartCast Ultra HD Home Theater Display ($900) against Samsung's 65-inch UN65MU7000 Ultra HD TV ($1,680) in a dark room. The E-Series model features full-array local dimming with 12 zones. Meanwhile, the Samsung model uses an edge-lit backlight with no local dimming functionality. Each unit supports the playback of HDR10 content but neither offers support for Dolby Vision. In the head-to-head, both displays were set to play back the same scene from Alejandro Iñárritu's The Revenant on Ultra HD Blu-ray in HDR through their movie calibration modes. While I'm not sure if further calibration or other setting adjustments could have yielded different results, as presented, the VIZIO model offered some very noticeable improvements over the Samsung. The E-Series provided a relatively deep sense of black thanks to its local dimming zones, but the Samsung's conventional edge-lit panel resulted in a noticeably washed out image with grey blacks and some uneven backlight bleeding visible. More surprising, however, was the difference in color between the two. The VIZIO demonstrated more pop with particularly lush greens in the forest location on-screen. Meanwhile, the Samsung looked quite undersaturated by comparison. Again, it's possible that fiddling with the Samsung's settings might create better results, but as demoed, the VIZIO was clearly superior to the more expensive MU7000. 2017 VIZIO E-Series displays with HDR10 support are currently available in sizes ranging from 55-inches to 80-inches, with prices starting at $550 and capping off at $3,400. M-SERIES Moving on to the company's step-up Ultra HD display series, VIZIO also demoed its 2017 M-Series. For this head-to-head, the M65 65-inch Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus Display ($1,500) was mounted next to Samsung's 65-inch Class Q7F QLED 4K TV ($3,500). The VIZIO model boasts the company's new XHDR Plus and Xtreme Black Engine Plus tech for improved HDR10 and Dolby Vision support with fullscreen brightness performance of 350 nits, peak brightness of 600 nits, and full-array local dimming with 32 active zones. In addition, the 2017 model now includes Ultra Color Spectrum capabilities for close to 100% coverage of the P3 wide color gamut -- something that was only found on the P-Series last year. Likewise, though not available now, VIZIO stated that a future HDR10+ update could be a possibility once the spec is finalized. Meanwhile, the Samsung model features an edge-lit panel with local dimming, quantum dots, HDR10, and HDR10+ support (but not Dolby Vision). For this demo, both displays played back a scene from Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice on Ultra HD Blu-ray in HDR10 through their respective movie modes. Though overall color and clarity were quite similar this time around, the VIZIO model once again demonstrated clear benefits with its backlighting. The full-array local dimming zones produced a deep level of black while maintaining solid shadow details and uniformity in Bruce Wayne's gloomy batcave. On the other hand, the Q7's edge-lit dimming introduced very noticeable bright spots in specific vertical columns on the panel where the zones would need to increase their brightness. The more precise dimming on the M-Series also led to superior HDR performance, allowing the set to pin-point highlights better without the uneven brightening and vertical blooming of the Samsung. VIZIO's 2017 M-Series is now available in sizes ranging from 50-inches to 75-inches, with prices starting at $800 and maxing out at $3,000. P-SERIES For the final display demo, VIZIO brought out its flagship 2017 P-Series and rather bravely placed its P65 65-inch Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro Display ($2,000) head-to-head against one of LG's highly praised 2016 B6 65-inch OLED models ($3,500). Though the hardware is actually the same as last year's models, the 2017 P-Series does feature some firmware upgrades (also set for the 2016 units) using the company's new XHDR Pro and Xtreme Black Engine Pro tech for an improved full-array local dimming algorithm with 128 zones (126 on the 55-inch), and optimized HDR10 and Dolby Vision playback at 600 nits. In addition, the displays maintain Ultra Color Spectrum capabilities for close to 100% coverage of the P3 wide color gamut. And, as with the M-Series, an HDR10+ update could be a possibility down the road. Meanwhile, the LG B6 uses an OLED panel for superior black levels and includes Ultra HD Premium certification with HDR10, Dolby Vision, a fullscreen brightness performance of around 180 nits, and peak performance at around 700 nits. For the side-by-side demonstration both displays played back a scene from Lucy on Ultra HD Blu-ray in HDR10 in their calibrated modes. And while VIZIO humbly acknowledged that the more expensive OLED did have them beat in certain picture quality aspects, the P-Series held its own surprisingly well. In fact, certain HDR elements actually performed slightly better on the P65. Due to its fullscreen 600 nits performance, the VIZIO was able to handle specular highlights better in brighter scenes, even bringing out a bit more detail in Scarlett Johansson's pores in a close-up shot. In contrast, the LG was able to bring more intensity to smaller highlights in darker scenes, including stars in a black sky. Black levels were also quite similar from a direct angle, though the LG still had an inkier appearance. Likewise, off-angle performance gave the OLED a clear win, as the B6 was able to maintain color and contrast from a side view while the VIZIO washed out significantly. Still, even though the B6 presented an overall superior picture, the difference between the two was relatively small considering the massive price difference. The 2017 VIZIO P-Series is now available in 55-inch ($1,300), 65-inch (2,000), and 75-inch screen sizes (3,500) -- losing the 50-inch model from last year. It should be noted, however, that just like the 2016 models, the 55-inch set uses an IPS panel (known for weaker blacks) and the 65-inch and 75-inch use VA panels. Likewise, since the 2016 P-Series units are set to receive the same picture quality firmware updates as the 2017 versions, the current price difference between them is a little perplexing. In other words, I'd recommend snagging a cheaper 2016 P-Series model while you can. SMARTCAST UPDATES In addition to highlighting the new lineup's picture quality performance, VIZIO also demoed some of its new SmartCast features. First implemented in the company's 2016 lineup, the SmartCast platform features Chromecast built-in, allowing users to cast content to and control their displays through the SmartCast app on Android and iOS mobile devices from any room in the home -- delivering an entirely different method for smart display streaming compared to other manufacturers. SmartCast users can also search and browse content by genre across multiple apps at once. For 2017, however, VIZIO has done away with the included Android tablet remotes found with the 2016 M-Series and P-Series. Instead, the displays now feature standard IR remotes, leaving the touch screen control option to a customer's separate mobile device. With that said, a firmware update set for release this summer will actually allow all 2017 SmartCast owners and all 2016 Ultra HD SmartCast owners to browse curated streaming apps directly on the big screen with the standard remote. The direct on-screen interface resembles the mobile experience and offers an emphasis on convenient content discovery. Likewise, users can easily transition from mobile to big-screen navigation and streaming, picking up right where they left off. Finally, VIZIO also demoed the SmartCast platform's support for voice controls through Google Home or other Google Assistant devices. To this end, we were able to start playing an episode of the Netflix series Chef's Table by simply speaking the command to a Google Home speaker. SOUND BARS & CRAVE GO Capping off the showcase, VIZIO presented a few demonstrations for its new audio products as well, starting with the latest addition to the Crave Audio collection. The SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker ($200) features a sleek metal grill, rubberized back for an enhanced grip, and built-in folding kickstand. Likewise, the device offers a built-in rechargeable battery for up to six hours of on-the-go use. Under the hood, the Crave Go uses custom-crafted 2-inch stereo drivers and a shared passive radiator for up to 88dB with bass as low as 75Hz. SmartCast capabilities with Chromecast built-in and multi-room Wi-Fi streaming are integrated as well, along with Bluetooth connectivity. For the demo, I sampled a music track streaming from Google Play, and though overall performance was solid with ample power during my limited listen, the audio did sound a little muddy, lacking the crisp highs found in more robust speakers. Next, the company turned its attention to two new sound bar models. First up, was the SB3621n 36-inch 2.1 Sound Bar System ($150). Though this 2017 model does away with the ultra-slim subwoofer found with some of the 2016 units (which will carry over to 2017), the new wireless sub is still relatively space-saving and the sound bar itself features a lower height so it doesn't block your TV. For demo purposes, VIZIO played the scene from Jurassic World where the kids get attacked by the Indominus rex in their sphere. 2-channel imaging was quite impressive with a surprisingly wide soundfield for a 36-inch bar. Likewise, the woofer balanced well with the main unit, offering solid kick behind each stomp and roar with just a tiny hint of distortion during one loud effect. Lastly, the final demo showed off the new SB3651 SmartCast 36-inch 5.1 Wireless Sound Bar System ($250). This model features the same subwoofer as the 2.1-channel version, along with a 3-channel sound bar unit, and two separate rear satellite speakers to create a compact surround sound system. For the demo, VIZIO played an action scene from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and similar to previous 5.1 models I've heard from the company, the results were very impressive. Swooping X-Wings and TIE Fighters moved about the soundstage with surprising precision, naturally transitioning from the left, right, and rear as laser blasts filled the room. Bass was ample as well and speech was properly centralized and nicely balanced. Though it can't quite compete with beefier full surround sound or Dolby Atmos/DTS:X systems, considering its size and price, performance was fantastic. FINAL THOUGHTS As my demo time came to a close, I was once again impressed by VIZIO's penchant for balancing performance and affordability. With some strong new sound bars and an updated M-Series with wide color gamut support starting at just $800, these 2017 models look like very enticing options. With that said, while the 2017 P-Series remains very impressive, its identical picture quality performance to the 2016 models makes me wonder why new 2017 branding was necessary at all -- especially since this year's models currently feature higher price points and no Android tablets. Still, it's actually quite commendable that the company is willing to keep 2016 models up to date, making last year's P-Series an even greater value. For now, what do you think about VIZIO's 2017 display and audio lineup? Will you be picking up any of the new models? Let us know your thoughts in the forums, and be sure to check back at High-Def Digest for more new gear demos, reviews, guides, and news!Posted Thu Apr 27, 2017 at 07:40 PM PDT by: -
Oscar-Winning Director Jonathan Demme Dead at 73[teaser]The acclaimed filmmaker best known for 'The Silence of the Lambs' and 'Philadelphia' has passed away.[/teaser] MSN.com is reporting that Jonathan Demme has died after losing his battle with esophageal cancer and complications from heart disease. Demme was in the director's seat for numerous other films and first made his mark on Hollywood with 1980's 'Melvin and Howard.' In 1986, he directed Jeff Daniels and Melanie Griffith in the quirky road trip comedy, 'Something Wild'. Demme is survived by his second wife Joanne Howard and their three children: Ramona, Brooklyn and Jos. He was 73 years old. Source: MSN.comPosted Wed Apr 26, 2017 at 09:29 AM PDT by: -
HDD Spotlight Bargain: 'Heat: Definitive Edition' Blu-ray $8.88 at Amazon[teaser]Michael Mann's newly restored crime drama (sourced from a new 4K master) isn't even out yet but it's already under $10.00 at Amazon. [/teaser] The online retailer is selling 'Heat: Definitive Edition' for only $8.88 (52% off suggested list price). Oscar winners Al Pacino and Robert De Niro both drive one of the most powerful and complex crime dramas of all time - four-time Oscar nominee Michael Mann's 1995 classic Heat., arriving in an all-new Director's Definitive Edition May 9 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. In the wake of a precision heist of an armored van, the crew of a fierce, professional thief (De Niro) and an obsessively driven LAPD detective (Pacino) are locked in deadly opposition as they vector towards each other in Mann's dazzling, twilight vision of Los Angeles. As the stakes escalate and their lives begin to unravel, the crew initiates its most dangerous and complex heist. Taking inspiration from the late Chicago police detective Charlie Adamson – who killed the actual Neil McCauley in a shootout in 1963 – Heat was the culmination of years of research by Mann resulting in its depth and range of characters and choreography of action. With its epic scale and stunning performances from Pacino, De Niro, Val Kilmer, Tom Sizemore, Ashley Judd, Amy Brenneman, Diane Venora, Natalie Portman and Jon Voight, HEAT is as incendiary as it was 20 years ago. The release will include a new Academy Panel reuniting Mann, Pacino and De Niro and moderated by Christopher Nolan as well as a new Toronto International Film Festival Q&A with Mann, plus all the supplements from previous releases. Order the Blu-rayPosted Wed Apr 26, 2017 at 08:58 AM PDT by: -
Blu-ray News Roundup: 'Re-Animator,' 'Power: The Complete Third Season,' and More[teaser]New details for several Blu-ray titles have been announced.[/teaser] Warner Bros., Scream Factory, Kino, Arrow Video, Magnolia, Starz/Anchor Bay, and Well Go USA have all announced new information for their upcoming Blu-ray releases. Here's a full rundown of the new details and title announcements: First up, Starz/Anchor Bay is set to release Power: The Complete Third Season starring Omari Hardwick, Lela Loren, and Naturi Naughton on June 13. No other details have been announced yet. Order the Blu-ray As previously reported, Scream Factory is prepping Beyond the Gates for Blu-ray on May 2. And now the supplements have been revealed: - Audio commentaries with Director Jackson Stewart, Actress Barbara Crampton and the cast and crew- Deleted Scenes- Theatrical Trailer- Behind-the-Scenes Featurette- And More! Order the Blu-ray As previously reported, Magnolia will release I Am Not Your Negro on Blu-ray on May 2. Newly announced supplements will include: - Interview with Director Raoul Peck- Q&A Session with Samuel L. Jackson- Q&A Session with Director Raoul Peck- Video Photo Gallery Order the Blu-ray Well Go USA is prepping Sky on Fire for Blu-ray on June 6. No other details have been announced. Likewise, the label will also release Operation Mekong on June 6 as well. Supplements will include a 6-Part "Making of" Featurette. Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Arrow Video is bringing Pulse to Blu-ray on July 11. Supplements will include: - New interview with writer/director Kiyoshi Kurosawa- New interview with cinematographer Junichiro Hayashi- The Horror of Isolation: a new video appreciation featuring Adam Wingard & Simon Barrett (Blair Witch, You re Next)- Archive Making of documentary, plus four archive behind-the-scenes featurettes- Premiere footage from the Cannes Film Festival- Cast and crew introductions from opening day screenings in Tokyo- Trailers and TV Spots- Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tommy Pocket. In addition, the distributor will release Stormy Monday on July 11 as well. The Blu-ray will feature: - Audio commentary with Mike Figgis, moderated by critic Damon Wise- New video appreciation by critic Neil Young, and a "then and now" tour of the film's Newcastle locations- Theatrical Trailer Meanwhile, New Battles Without Honour and Humanity: The Complete Trilogy is due for a July 18 release. Supplements will include: - Beyond the Films: New Battles Without Honor and Humanity, a new video appreciation by Fukasaku biographer Sadao Yamane- New Stories, New Battles and Closing Stories, two new interviews with screenwriter Koji Takada, about his work on the second and third films in the trilogy- Original Theatrical Trailers (All Three Films) And rounding out its July lineup, Arrow Video is also prepping Re-Animator (Limited Edition) for Blu-ray on July 25. The 2-Disc set will feature: - 4K restorations of the Unrated and Integral versions of the film- Digipak packaging featuring newly commissioned artwork by Justin Erickson- Collector's booklet featuring new writing on the film by writer Michael Gingold- Re-Animator the original 1991 comic book adaptation, reprinted in its entirety- Audio Commentaries- Re-Animator Resurrectus documentary on the making of the film, featuring extensive interviews with cast and crew- Interviews- Barbara Crampton In Conversation the Re-Animator star sits down with journalist Alan Jones for this career-spanning discussion- Deleted Scenes- Trailers- Music Discussion with Composer Richard Band- A Guide to Lovecraftian Cinema brand new featurette looking at the many various cinematic incarnations of writer H.P. Lovecraft's work Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Order the Blu-ray Kino has announced plans to bring James Cruze's Old Ironsides, and Bernard L. Kowalski's Krakatoa: East of Java starring Maximilian Schell to Blu-ray later this year. No other details have been announced yet. Finally, Warner Bros. is prepping Damon Santostefano's Pure Country: Pure Heart for Blu-ray on August 1. The release will be available exclusively through Walmart. No other details have been announced. You can find the latest specs for all of the titles above linked from our Blu-ray Release Schedule.Posted Tue Apr 25, 2017 at 09:00 PM PDT by: -
Pioneer & Onkyo Launch Chromecast Built-In Support and Google Home Voice Control for Select Audio Products[teaser]The casting tech is now available on select audio devices.[/teaser] Onkyo and Pioneer have released a firmware update for select audio gear adding support for Google's Chromecast built-in technology. Likewise, the update also offers voice control support through the Google Home speaker or future Google Assistant Audio devices. In addition, Pioneer has launched its new MRX-3 Multi-Room Wireless Speaker and Onkyo has launched its new NCP-302 Multi-room Wireless Speaker. Both models include Chromecast-built-in and are now available for an MSRP of $349 (USD) each. Chromecast built-in tech allows customers with Chromecast-enabled AV products to use their mobile devices to stream music, radio, or podcasts, and control the audio from anywhere in the house using Cast-enabled mobile apps for iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac and Windows laptop, and Chromebook. Meanwhile, users can also now use their Google Home or other Google Assistant devices to control supported Pioneer and Onkyo components with voice commands, allowing customers to simply speak instructions for streaming services, song or album selections, volume adjustments, and other playback operations. Here's a full rundown of Pioneer and Onkyo devices eligible for the Chromecast built-in firmware update: Pioneer Elite A/V Receivers - VSX-LX101 - VSX-LX301 - SC-LX501 - SC-LX701 - SC-LX801 - SC-LX901 Pioneer A/V Receivers - VSX-S520 - VSX-831 - VSX-832 - VSX-1131 Pioneer 2-Channel Components - XC-HM86 - SX-S30 Pioneer Mini Stereo System - X-HM76 Pioneer Sound Bars System - FS-EB70 - Pioneer Wireless Speaker - MRX-3 Onkyo A/V Receivers & Pre-Amp - TX-NR555 - TX-NR656 - TX-NR757 - TX-RZ610 - TX-RZ710 - TX-RZ810 - TX-RZ1100 - TX-RZ3100 - PR-RZ5100 - TX-NR676 - TX-NR575 - TX-8270 Onkyo Home Theater Systems & Sound Bars - HT-S7800 - SBT-A500 Onkyo Wireless Speaker - NCP-302 Sources: Onkyo, PioneerPosted Tue Apr 25, 2017 at 07:20 PM PDT by: -
VIZIO Releases 2017 P-Series & M-Series Ultra HD HDR Displays, Prices Start at $800[teaser]The new lineup features local dimming along with HDR10 and Dolby Vision support.[/teaser] VIZIO has unveiled its 2017 P-Series and M-Series collection of Ultra HD displays. Models rage in size from 50-inches to 75-inches with prices starting at $800. The flagship 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 pricing for the 2017 P-Series: - VIZIO SmartCast™ P-Series™ 55” Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro™ Display™ (P55) MSRP $1,299.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ P-Series™ 65” Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro™ Display™ (P65) MSRP $1,999.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ P-Series™ 75” Ultra HD HDR XLED Pro™ Display™ (P75) MSRP $3,499.99 Meanwhile, the M-Series features XLED Plus full-array local dimming backlight technology with Xtreme Black Engine Plus and 32 local dimming zones. In addition, the displays offer XHDR Plus with Dolby Vision and HDR10 content support, along with Ultra Color Spectrum, which provides over one billion colors. And like the step-up P-Series, SmartCast capabilities are included as well, allowing customers to control their displays through the SmartCast mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Likewise, the M-Series will also receive an update enabling users to browse streaming apps directly on the big screen with the included remote. Here's a rundown of models and pricing for the 2017 M-Series: - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 50” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M50) MSRP $799.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 55” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M55) MSRP $999.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 65” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M65) MSRP $1,499.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 70” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M70) MSRP $1,999.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ M-Series™ 75” Ultra HD HDR XLED Plus™ Display™ (M75) MSRP $2,999.99 The VIZIO 2017 P-Series and M-Series Ultra HD HDR SmartCast Displays are now available through VIZIO.com. Be sure to check back at High-Def Digest soon for hands-on impressions of the new lineup! Source: VIZIOPosted Tue Apr 25, 2017 at 05:00 AM PDT by:
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VIZIO Unveils SmartCast Crave Go Speaker & 2017 Sound Bar Collection[teaser]Several new audio products have been detailed.[/teaser] VIZIO has announced the launch of its 2017 Sound Bar lineup. In addition, the company has also released its new SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker. New sound bar models range from simple 2-channel solutions to full 5.1 systems with SmartCast capabilities. SmartCast models offer Chromecast built-in with Wi-Fi streaming support and the option to use a mobile device as a touchscreen remote with the VIZIO SmartCast Mobile app for iOS and Android. The flagship SmartCast 36" 5.1 Wireless Sound Bar model features a 3-channel sound bar capable of 101 dB of room-filling sound. In addition, the system also includes a wireless subwoofer and two satellite speakers to provide a complete surround sound experience. Here's a rundown of 2017 VIZIO sound bar models and pricing: - VIZIO 28” 2.0 Sound Bar (SB2820n) MSRP $79.99 - VIZIO 36” 2.1 Sound Bar System (SB3621n) MSRP $149.99 - VIZIO 32” 5.1 Sound Bar System (SB3251n) MSRP $229.99 - VIZIO SmartCast™ 36” 5.1 Wireless Sound Bar System (SB3651) MSRP $249.99 Meanwhile, VIZIO has also announced the launch of its latest Crave Audio model, the SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker. The device features a sleek metal speaker grill, rubberized back for an enhanced grip, and built-in folding kickstand. Likewise, the device offers a built-in rechargeable battery for up to six hours of on-the-go use. Under the hood, the Crave Go uses custom-crafted drivers for up to 88dB with bass as low as 75Hz. SmartCast capabilities with Chromecast built-in and multi-room Wi-Fi streaming are integrated as well, allowing users to stream music from many popular apps like iHeartRadio, Google Play Music, Pandora, Spotify and more. In addition, customers can also control the speaker through the VIZIO SmartCast Mobile app on iOS and Android devices. Finally, the Crave Go features Bluetooth capabilities as well. The VIZIO SmartCast Crave Go Multi-Room Wireless Speaker is now available at VIZIO.com for $200. Likewise, the 2017 sound bar collection is now rolling out to VIZIO.com as well. Be sure to check back at High-Def Digest soon for hands-on impressions of the new lineup! Source: VIZIOPosted Tue Apr 25, 2017 at 05:00 AM PDT by: -
HDD Gear Deals: Up to 44% off Home Theater Systems[teaser]Amazon is offering big discounts on select home theater packages![/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing deals, Amazon is running a sale on home theater systems from LG, Klipsch, Onkyo, Sony, and Yamaha. LG Electronics BH5140S Blu-ray Home Theater System (Certified Refurbished) - Currently $140 (44% off). Klipsch Quintet V(5) Home Theater System with Onkyo TX-NR626 - Currently $1,099 (30% off). Onkyo HT-S5800 5.1.2-Channel Dolby Atmos Home Theater Package - Currently $580 (27% off). Sony BDV-E2100 3D Smart Blu-ray Home Theater System (Certified Refurbished) - Currently $200 (20% off). Yamaha YHT-5920UBL MusicCast Home Theater in a Box - Currently $600 (14% off). Yamaha YHT-4920UBL 5.1-Channel Home Theater in a Box - Currently $460 (13% off). Yamaha YHT-3920UBL 5.1-Channel Home Theater in a Box - Currently $430 (10% off). These deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Mon Apr 24, 2017 at 06:00 PM PDT by:
