Panasonic's biggest plasma HDTVs get a fall makeover

Panasonic's finally shipping the larger editions of its latest plasmas, from the updated and suddenly more famous 103-inch model to the 65- and 58-inch PZ800 series that have been leaking into U.S. stores recently. Japan also gets the top of the line PZR900 series that takes the YouTube access available in the latest PZ850 series and throws in a 1 TB DVR to go along with the 30,000:1 contrast ratio and acTVila HD video on-demand support, packed into 42-, 50-, and 58-inch panels. Of course, for those with 5.1 million yen ($48,314 U.S.) laying around and a large amount of wall space, the king sized TH-103PZ800 is nearly entry-level priced compared to its $70,000 predecessor, so why not treat yourself? You deserve it.



[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 103,103-inch,1tb,dvr,panasonic,plasma,pz800,pz800u,pzr900,youtube ]

projectiondesign announces avielo HD projector trio, steers clear of the Shift key

While some outfits evidently operate with a dysfunctional Caps Lock key, projectiondesign is taking things to the opposite extreme by announcing the lower-cased spectra, optix and prisma. The aforesaid trio of DLP projectors is gearing up for a CEDIA debut, where they each will be showing off their 720p / 1080p resolutions, UHP VIDI lamp technology, RealColor management suite, 10-bit processing and HDMI 1.3 connectivity. For the full rundown of specifications (no prices, sorry), tag the read link -- and don't be shocked to hear a teaser about the helios (pictured) and two other unnamed units destined for Q4.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 1080p,720p,avielo,cedia,cedia 2008,Cedia2008,DLP,hd projector,HdProjector,optix,pj,prisma,Projectiondesign,projector,spectra,uhp vidi,UhpVidi ]

Sanyo's entry-level PLV-Z700 projector runs $1,995, shipping in October

After vaguely describing its new 1080p 3LCD-based PLV-Z700 projector as "entry-level", Sanyo's finally returned with a pricetag: $1,995. While that doesn't exactly spell "cheap" to most, good luck finding another full HD projector that matches these specs with an MSRP starting south of two grand. 10,000:1 contrast ratio, 1,200 ANSI lumens and a variable lens designed to adjust to smaller rooms adds up to the perfect solution for those who want more pixels but less price, expect to find out more when it hits the stage at IFA 2008 in Berlin August 29, followed by store shelves worldwide in October, closing out its run with full specs after the break.
Other Specifications
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (Full HD)
Native Aspect Ratio: 16:9
Color range: 1.07 billion (10 bit)
Brightness: 1,200 ANSI lumens (Dynamic Video Mode)
Contrast Ratio: 10,000:1 (Dynamic Video Mode)
Projection Lamp: UHP 165W
Screen Size: Minimum 40", Maximum 300" (with projection distance of approx 4-60 feet)
Projection Lens: Manual Zoom 1-2.0x (f=22.6-45.3mm, F2.0-F3.0)
Video Modes: 5 (Brilliant Cinema/Creative Cinema/Natural/Living/Dynamic)
Noise output: 21 dBA (Cinema Black Mode)
PC I/O: Mini D-sub 15-pin, analog RGB
Video Input: HDMI x 2 (ver1.3b w/Deep Color), Component (Y/Cb/Cr) x 2, Composite (RCA) x 1, S-Video x 1
Dimensions: 15.75 (W) x 5.75 (H) x 13.6 (D) inches
Weight: 16.5 lbs

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 1080p,ifa,ifa 2008,Ifa2008,lcd,plv-z700,projector,sanyo ]

iriver P20 media player and M3 GPS navigator headed to IFA

While traditionally known as a forum for HDTVs, the big IFA show in Berlin is also shaping up as a showcase battle for Korean DAPs. Hot on the arching heels of Cowon's S9 Curve comes this, the (re)announcement of iriver's P20. While we first saw the P20 as a plastic prototype at CES, we're desperately hoping for a fully functional, 80/120GB media player this time around. The device is still spec'd with a 4.1-inch AMOLED touchscreen display capable of pumping 12-, 9-, or 8-hours of music, video, or DMB TV at a clip, respectively. It's also likely sporting a SPINN UI judging by that thumb-wheel. Also on deck is the M3 portable GPS navigator / media player with 3.5-inch touch screen LCD. More details on Friday when trade show floor opens its doors.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: amoled, dap, GPS, ifa, iriver, m3, oled, p20, pmp, pnd, touchscreen ]

Pioneer Elite BDP-09FD Profile 2.0 Blu-ray player leaks out

Pioneer's last batch of Blu-ray players wasn't exactly earth-shattering, but if you're in the market for the highest of the high-end, it sounds like the upcoming Elite BDP-09FD might be worth waiting for. The first Pioneer unit to support Profile 2.0 and BD-Live, you'll also be getting 4GB of internal storage, eight independent D/A converters for each 7.1 channel (which means there are tons of receiver-caliber adjustments possible from the player), and 16-bit color output over two HDMI jacks. Should be out soon, for a whopping $2200.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: bd-live,bdlive,bdp 09fd,bdp-09fd,Bdp09fd,elite,pioneer,pioneer elite,PioneerElite,profile 2.0,Profile2.0 ]

KAON's KM35 PMP does mobile TV on the side

Pucker up, jet-setters -- South Korea's own KAON Media has a new PMP on the way, and for whatever reason, we've found ourselves strangely attracted to what the KM35 has going on here. The "Anywhere TV and Internet" device runs on Windows CE (and handles fresh-out-of-cinema films very well) and features a 3.5-inch 320 x 240 resolution display, 4GB or 8GB NAND flash drive, WiFi, an SD expansion slot, optional FM tuner and your choice of DVB-T/H, ISDB-T or T-DMB TV tuners. Early estimates peg battery life at around 2.5-hours when watching live TV, though there's no word yet on pricing or worldwide availability.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: conglomerate,dvb-t,KAON,KM35,korea,mobile tv,MobileTv,pmp,south korea,SouthKorea ]

Intel and Yahoo! envision embedded internet TV

We're not sure who let Yahoo! into Intel's party in San Francisco, but the two sure are getting along great. Much to the chagrin of Mark Cuban, these two actually believe that there's a future in internet TV, particularly if you force it down people's throats. Intel spent the bulk of its time talking up the Media Processor CE 3100 (formerly known as Canmore), which would theoretically be installed within HDTVs and enable users to access internet-based content without the need for an additional set-top-box ('course, the STB is still optional). That's where Yahoo! comes in -- it's hoping that its Widget Channel will encourage users to utilize its services when watching re-runs or other lackluster material in order to get news, weather and other related information right on the living room set. Not that this is a totally new concept, but these two surely have the power to push it one step further. Lots more information and pictures in the links below.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: Canmore,CE3100,IDF,IDF 2008,Idf2008,intel,internet tv,internet video,InternetTv,InternetVideo,media processor,MediaProcessor,SoC,Sodaville,Widget Channel,WidgetChannel,yahoo ]

Intempo unveils iPod-lovin' RDi-W / Fusion speaker systems

What can we say? Intempo has launched a new pair of iPod-compatible speaker systems, and unless you're somehow just entering the market for one in the latter half of 2008, chances are you're already yawning. Nevertheless, the RDi-W (pictured) does distinguish itself somewhat by including support for DAB and wireless internet radio, and there's a 30-watt internal amplifier to kick out the jams. The much drabber Fusion keeps things small and simple by offering up just 25-watts of power and DAB / FM tuners. Expect the couple to sashay into e-tailers next month for ?169.99 ($316) / ?99 ($184).

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: audio,dock,fusion,Intempo,internet radio,InternetRadio,ipod accessory,ipod boombox,ipod dock,ipod sound system,ipod speaker system,IpodAccessory,IpodBoombox,IpodDock,IpodSoundSystem,IpodSpeakerSystem,music,radio,RDi-W,sound,sound system,SoundSystem,speaker,speaker system,SpeakerSystem,uk ]

Vivitek introduces its very first projectors, forgets to make 'em memorable

Just what the world needs -- another pair of perfectly average projectors to choose from. Vivitek has boldly gone where so many others have gone before by introducing the D326MX (XGA) and D326WX (WXGA) projectors, both of which rely on Texas Instruments' DLP engine and boast rapid start-up / instant shutdown features, HDMI / component connectors, 2,600 ANSI lumens, a 2,500:1 contrast ratio, 5-segment color wheel and a 1-watt speaker for mind-blowing monaural sound. The units weigh in at just 3.2-pounds apiece, and both should be available now for $999 / $1,199 should you remember to look within the next 15 seconds. Full release after the break.
FIRST PROJECTORS FROM VIVITEK OFFER EFFICIENT MOBILITY AND VERSATILITY
New Projectors Serve Mobile Professional and Home Theater Applications
CITY OF INDUSTRY, CA, August 20, 2008 – Vivitek Corporation, a leader in the environmentally responsible manufacture of today's most innovative visual display and presentation products, today announced its first products for the projector market, the D326MX and the D326WX. As with all of Vivitek's projector products, both units use the latest DLP technology from Texas Instruments, enabling sharp displays with outstanding image quality. Carefully designed for Vivitek's market entry, the new projectors also use exclusive BrilliantColor for exceptional brightness and vibrant colors, and launch in an attractive, compact form.
"I believe we are coming to market with a very powerful and impressive projector duo for our first product offerings," said Sam Malik, vice president of sales and marketing for Vivitek. "Our Vivitek promise is that we will build the best, and most economical products for today's myriad of presentation applications, and that we will do it in an environmentally responsible manner whenever and wherever we can."
Respecting new airline bag restrictions for the mobile professional taking business "on-the-road" both projectors are designed with a small form-factor and weigh in at only 3.2 pounds for tucking easily into carry-on. The D326WX model also adds a versatile "at-home" feature with its native, wide XGA (1280 x 800 pixels) resolution for superior, wide screen presentations of movies and sporting events. In addition to the convenient mobility and theater viewing applications, the D326MX and D326WX projectors offer unique, time, cost, and energy saving rapid start-up and instant shutdown features that enable instant ON/OFF for all presentations without warm-up or cool-down periods. The units also include a built-in Kensington security lock to help prevent any unauthorized removal or theft.
From source to screen, both projectors ensure a pure connection with a choice of HDMI or component cable connectors. The 720p HDTV format brings 720 lines of vertical resolution transmitted at one time, as opposed to interlaced formats, so the HD projectors produce more clarity for fast motion events such as sports. For ease of use, whether mounted on a wall or placed on a table, picture adjustment is simple with onboard, vertical, Digital Keystone correction.
The D326MX and D326WX projectors shine with 2600 brilliant ANSI lumens and each has a rich 2500:1 contrast ratio. Additionally, the projector combines all the critical features of the new, advanced DLP chip, a 5-segment color wheel (R, G, B, W, Y) and a high efficiency light source lamp to produce incredible images with rich and vibrant colors.
Designed with Vivitek's consideration for cost-effective and environmentally sound features, the D326MX and D326WX DLP projectors are of a dust- and filter-free design minimizing maintenance and replacement needs and keeping the projector running at top energy efficient levels. Both projectors also have an Eco-Mode lamp setting enabling up to 4,000 hours of lower-energy performance with fewer replacements and reduced refuse.
Pricing, Availability, Warranty
Vivitek's D326MX and D325WX carry low MSRP's of $999 and $1,199 respectively, and are available now through authorized Vivitek dealers and distributors nationwide. The projectors both have three-year limited warranties on parts and labor, a 1-year lamp warranty, and the industry's first 5-year DLP chip warranty.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: BrilliantColor,D326MX,D326WX,DLP,pj,projector,Texas Instruments,TexasInstruments,Vivitek ]

Sony expands Muteki family with DJ-style LBT-DJ2i XROSS FADE music system

Man, we didn't even know the Muteki moniker was still in existence. Nevertheless, Sony has just added a big, bad member to said congregation with the LBT-DJ2i XROSS FADE. This rather beastly music system packs 450 total watts of power, a CD player, AM / FM tuners, a line-in jack, a pair of 2-way shelf speakers, a dual 7-inch subwoofer enclosure and the ability to convert CDs / radio to MP3 files. And that's just the beginning. Aspiring DJs will also find a bundled cross-fader with monitor cue and a built-in two-channel mixer, and the iPod-lovin' interface ensures that you'll never have to touch your PMPs once they're mounted. There's also a USB recording function to save mix sessions to a USB device in ATRAC MP3 format. Too bad this setup will cost you half a grand when it ships next month. Check the full release after the cut.
SONY INTRODUCES XROSS FADE: A NEW SPIN ON A DJ-STYLE MUSIC SYSTEM
Mega Sound System is Ideal for Amateur DJs and House Parties
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 21, 2008 – Sony today introduced a DJ-style shelf system with a dual dock for iPod® devices called XROSS FADE™. Perfect for mixing and playing music from iPod players, CDs and other music sources, XROSS FADE helps create the ultimate party soundtrack.
Part of the Muteki™ series of stereo systems, the XROSS FADE (model LBT-DJ2i) has an imposing presence and massive output that can fill nearly any room with sound, whether it's in a home, a dorm, or even powering a block party.
This music system has 450 watts of total power output, so aspiring DJs can crank up the volume while still maintaining high quality sound. As its name implies, the XROSS FADE system comes with DJ-style features, including a cross-fader with monitor cue and a built-in two-channel mixer. With this feature, an upcoming track can be checked through headphones to be sure it's cued properly before playing it aloud. DJs can mix two songs or fade into the next song without missing a beat.
With an interface and two scroll wheel mechanisms that allow for easy menu navigation similar to that of iPod players, users never need to touch their iPod players while scanning for the next track. The XROSS FADE system even has a USB recording function that saves mixing sessions to a USB device in the MP3 format without a PC.
For MP3 files, the system's MP3 Booster+ feature improves audio quality by restoring sound that is lost during compression. For extra thump, the beat blend feature adds a layer of pre-programmed percussion, drum sounds and drum loops over the mix.
The XROSS FADE system includes traditional shelf system features, such as a CD player, an AM/FM tuner, and a line-in jack for listening to MP3 players. Users can mix music from these sources as well as their iPod players. The system converts CDs and AM/FM radio to MP3 files as well.
With its matte black and chrome finish and appearance similar to a DJ mixing board, the XROSS FADE system is designed to be a statement piece for the bedroom, dorm room or living room. It produces a booming, high-impact sound through a pair of two-way bass reflex speakers and a dual 7-inch subwoofer enclosure.
Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders for the XROSS FADE audio system are now being accepted at www.sonystyle.com. The LBT-DJ2i XROSS FADE music system will be available in September for about $500 direct from select retailers nationwide. For more information about the XROSS FADE system and the entire Muteki line of shelf systems, please visit www.sony.com/muteki.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: audio,boombox,DJ,Ipod accessory,IpodAccessory,LBT-DJ2i,mixing,music,Muteki,Sony,sound system,SoundSystem,stereo system,StereoSystem,XROSS FADE,XrossFade ]

Sony intros iPod-friendly S-AIRPLAY multi-room audio system

You know how it goes with Sony -- proprietary just seems to rule the roost. Thankfully, the outfit is at least recognizing a trend in the market by trotting out an iPod-friendly version of its S-AIR wireless audio technology. The new S-AIRPLAY system (formally known as AIR-SA20PK) comes with one iPod docking station and a pair of S-AIR wireless speakers, though there is an AM / FM tuner built in should your stored jams get stale. Sony suggests that music can be beamed some 164-feet away from the dock sans cabling, and so long as your S-AIR speaker is plugged into a power outlet (and within the aforementioned range), it'll pick up the signal and start talkin'. Look for the kit to land next month for around $400, while additional S-AIR wireless speakers will set you back $130 apiece. Full release after the break.
SONY UNVEILS WIRELESS MULTI-ROOM AUDIO SYSTEM FOR IPOD PLAYERS
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 21, 2008 – Sony today took the wraps off its new wireless, multi-room audio system for listening to iPod® players.
The new S-AIRPLAY™ system features Sony's S-Air™ technology, which provides a practical, wireless multi-room solution without complicated set-up requirements. Wireless audio can be transmitted from the system's main docking station in one room to various rooms throughout the home -- up to nearly 164 feet-simply by plugging a separate S-Air wireless speaker into a power outlet.
"This technology makes it easy to listen to music from a compatible iPod without carrying it from room to room," said Andrew Sivori, director of marketing in the personal audio group at Sony Electronics' Digital Imaging and Audio Division. "It's an easy, inexpensive way to get multi-room audio without professional installation."
S-Air technology delivers audio wirelessly to the included speakers without interfering with other household devices. The system comes with one docking station and two S-Air wireless speakers, but it can transmit to up to 10 speakers simultaneously (additional speakers sold separately).
Equipped with an AM/FM tuner, the S-AIRPLAY system's dual source feature lets users listen to music from the iPod player or from a radio station. Listeners in one room can hear their favorite radio station, while listeners in another room can enjoy music from the iPod at the same time.
The S-Air wireless speakers include remote control capability for the iPod player's music tracks so you can advance or go back to previously played songs. The speakers also incorporate sleep timers and an alarm clock function, making them perfect for bedside placement.
To connect to an existing home theater system or television set, the docking station includes composite A/V outputs. It also charges the iPod while it is docked.
Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders for the S-AIRPLAY audio system are now being accepted online at www.sonystyle.com. The system (model AIR-SA20PK) will be available in September for about $400 at Sony Style® retail stores and select retailers nationwide. Additional S-Air wireless speakers will also be available next month for about $130 direct from Sony.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: AIR-SA10,AIR-SA20PK,audio,ipod accessory,ipod dock,IpodAccessory,IpodDock,multi-room audio,Multi-roomAudio,music,official,S-Air,S-AIRPLAY,sony,wireless audio,WirelessAudio ]

Planar announces Viper DLP HD projector

Planar has remained mostly quiet since CES, but given that CEDIA is within spittin' distance, it's no shock to see it making waves once more. Today, the outfit has revealed its first 3-chip HD projector, the DLP-based Viper. Other specs include a native 1,280 x 720 resolution, 10,000:1 contrast ratio, 2,000 lumens and 10-bit independent dual image / motion adaptive processing. You'll also find an RS-232 port, twin HDMI 1.3 sockets and a jaw-dropping $15,495 price tag. It's shipping immediately for those with the requisite coin. Full release after the break.Planar Announces Its First 3-Chip HD Projector for the Custom Home Theater Market

Viper uniquely combines Planar's engineering expertise with 3-chip DLP® image accuracy to offers stellar big-screen HD performance to demanding video aficionados.
Beaverton, OR – August 21, 2008 – Planar Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:PLNR), a worldwide leader in specialty display systems, today introduced the brand's first 3-chip DLP® projector built exclusively for the custom home theater market –Viper.
Planar's Viper was specifically designed and engineered to bring unprecedented imagery and installation versatility to the larger screen sizes (greater than 110 inches) where 3-chip high-definition DLP projection remains the ideal video solution. "The combination of Planar's display prowess and superior 3-chip DLP technology afforded us the opportunity to produce a custom home theater projector that is unrivaled in this market segment," said Brian Carskadon, Director of Product Management, Planar Systems Inc. "Viper's exceptional image performance, most notably in contrast and black levels, combined with its exclusive design and integration features, reaffirms Planar's commitment to offer the most impressive video displays where the image experience really matters."
Planar's Viper is the first 3-chip projector system to feature superior technology enabling some of the best contrast ratios and color performance achieved through an exclusive partnership between Planar Systems and DLP, Texas Instruments (TI). DLP enables the native 1280 x 720 Viper to achieve an astounding 10,000:1 contrast ratio at 2,000 lumens brightness to deliver the deepest black levels and unrivaled high-definition video performance. "DLP's latest advancements have been incorporated into Viper to set a new industry benchmark in black level reproduction for front projection," said Nancy Fares, business manager for DLP 3Chip products and DLP Cinema®. "Viper delivers video performance that is simply without compromise."
Planar's Viper offers a stellar home theater projection solution that is beyond impressive in style and imagery. Viper features Planar's unique curved industrial design elements and high-gloss piano black finish, combining elegance with the ultimate viewing experience. Built to match the excellence of the esteemed theaters it will grace, Viper delivers rich, accurate colors, as well as proprietary advanced video processing with 10-bit independent dual image and motion adaptive processing. Viper's true 1080i interlacing provides increased detail enhancement, while its artifact-free, pristine reproduction of all native film and native video formats (1080p, 1080p-24, 1080i, 720p, 576p and 480p) will win over even the most discerning video aficionado.
"Planar truly has hit a home run with Viper," said Joel Silver, president and founder of the Imaging Science Foundation. "Its superb image quality is a revelation at this price point, as is its dazzling feature set. Planar's attention to detail here is phenomenal. Viper's full complement of installer-friendly options and tools will enable Planar dealers to create world-class home theaters that fully exploit this projector's significant technical capabilities."
A true specialty integration projector from ground up, Planar Viper's unique system design offers a multitude of custom installation-friendly features for jaw-dropping performance even in the most demanding home theater applications. Viper delivers the ultimate installation flexibility with five lens options, power zoom and focus, and horizontal and vertical lens shift. Planar's innovative intelligent lens shift technology prohibits lens shift outside the image area to eliminate shadowing or clipping the image, which is a revolutionary software function for home theater projectors. Also included are an RS-232 automation interface with discrete on/off, input selection and aspect ratio control, as well as two HDMI 1.3 with Deep Color inputs.
The Planar Viper is available for immediate shipping.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 720,hd projector,HdProjector,home cinema,HomeCinema,pj,planar,projector,viper ]

Eyes-on Toshiba's new XD-E500 upconverting DVD player

Yes, Toshiba seems resigned to some sort of HD disc-free existence, as it continues to mope about HD DVD's loss to Blu-ray and refrains from releasing a player for the once rival format, but let's set all aside for the moment. We got a look at Toshiba's new XD-E500 in action, and we must say: it does what it sets out to do. Most consumers will see a visible quality improvement when playing their DVDs, particularly in the realm of sharpness. Toshiba's new filters are "intelligent" enough to spice up the grass while leaving the sky and clouds free of noise, and while the contrast and color filters are less necessary, many consumers will enjoy their effect -- even if video purists would scoff at such alterations. As for usability, it couldn't really be much easier to flip on and off the three different enhancements, but there's also no customization of those modes to speak of. This $150 player isn't in any way Toshiba's Blu-ray killer, but thankfully the company actually seems to recognize that, and plans to market to Joe consumer who doesn't want to fork over the dough for a Blu-ray player or doesn't want to invest in a brand new video library, and won't be insulting videophiles' intelligence with claims to the contrary. If you're looking for something to magically make DVDs look like HD, this isn't it, but it bests Toshiba's best upconverter easily, and we'd venture to guess it's probably tops yours as well. All that said, Toshiba will have in store demos of the player at major retailers, and we'd highly recommend taking a gander for yourself before you take the plunge.
[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: eyes-on,hands-on,toshiba,upconvert,upconverting,xd-e500 ]

Popcorn Hour's A-110 HD media streamer / B-110 motherboard reviewed

If you've been putting off that purchase of Popcorn Hour's evolutionary A-110 HD media streamer or all new B-110 motherboard, here's a decent compilation of facts and opinions to help you make up your mind once and for all. The cats over at DigitalReviews took the time to not only detail, test out and report back on the newest duo from the company, but it also revisited the original (and heralded) A-100 in order to give a better comparison. Overall, critics did tend to prefer the A-110 over its predecessor, but the minor list of changes made it a hard sell for folks teetering on upgrading. The B-110 was seen as an even tougher sell, with only the hardcore DIY crowd likely to even find it worth investigating. Nevertheless, we won't spoil the rest for you -- head on down to have a look for yourself.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: A-110,B-110,hd media streamer,hd streaming,HdMediaStreamer,HdStreaming,media streamer,MediaStreamer,mobo,motherboard,networked media tank,NetworkedMediaTank,popcorn hour,PopcornHour,review,reviewed,stream,streaming ]

RED brings the trademark pain against LG's Scarlet HDTV

You wouldn't think that anyone in the market for a $3,000 handheld camera capable of shooting 3K HD at 100MB/s would somehow get confused enough to end up with a medicore LG plasma TV, but it seems like the folks at RED are worried -- the company's lawyers are preparing an opposition to LG's filing for the "Scarlet" trademark, and they've filed for their own mark. It looks like RED is getting pretty serious about protecting its marks -- president Jim Jannard is politely asking RED fans to include a trademark disclaimer when they post about the company's products, and he says that the proceedings against LG are "just the tip of the iceberg." Honestly, we think RED's going to have a tough time selling a judge on the likelihood of confusion between a consumer-oriented HDTV and a decidedly pro-grade camera, but we've been surprised in the past -- we'll see how this one plays out.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: jim jannard,JimJannard,lawsuit,legal,lg,red,scarlet,trademark ]

Sanyo offers up "entry-level" 1080p PLV-Z700 LCD projector

"Entry-level" and "1080p projector" don't often go hand-in-hand, but Sanyo's mashing the two terms together with its PLV-Z700. The Full HD beamer provides a 1,920 x 1,080 native resolution, 1,200 ANSI lumens, 10,000:1 contrast ratio, twin HDMI 1.3b ports (along with an array of others) and a variable iris that can "control lens iris adjustment every 1/60th of a second." Unfortunately, the most tantalizing tidbit has been omitted for now (yes, the price), but word on the street has it shipping to the UK in October.


[Via: AboutProjectors ]
[Tag: 1080p, hd projector, HdProjector, pj, PLV-Z700, projector, sanyo ]

Toshiba stubbornly launches the un-Blu-ray, XD-E500 DVD player

Oh Toshiba, has it really come to this? After a humiliating loss to Blu-ray, Tosh just unveiled its new $150 XD-E500 DVD player. It's no run o' the mill DVD player mind you, this unit touts Toshiba's new eXtended Detail Enhancement (XDE) technology -- that super-duper resolution upconverting tech meant to fill the void between ubiquitous upconverting players and Blu-ray. Unfortunately, the player demonstrated offered just "subtle but noticeable sharpening of the image" when compared side-by-side (in a controlled demonstration) with an unnamed $70 upscaler -- to its credit, Tosh did not try to compare its new player with an HD-capable Blu-ray machine. Still, more than twice the price for "subtle" hardly sounds like a compelling purchase to us.
Update: Official press release is now out which, oddly enough, helped us upconvert our 480i/p cynicism to full-blown 1080p/24fps skepticism.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: dvd,toshiba,upconvert,upconverting,xd-e500,xde ]

Sony ready to debut WHDI with the DMX-WL1T

Details around the wireless edition of Sony's Bravia Internet Link kit -- most notably peeped during CES -- are coming into focus. Using that WHDI tech the kids are so into these days, this system is for Sony's Digital Media Extender-equipped HDTVs, and according to Sony Insider will debut for a price between $350 and $500 at the IFA conference in Berlin. Unfortunately, SI's info suggests we may only be spec'd for 1080i streaming of up to 5 feet, a bit less than the 200 foot range originally expected -- for only the fraction of the price of Monster Cables. Punch the read link for the rest of the details on the DMX-WL1T, while the rest of us hope Sony can turn the distance up enough to make it worthwhile.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: amaimon,bravia,bravia internet link,BraviaInternetLink,digital media extender,DigitalMediaExtender,dmx-wl1t,sony,whdi,wireless,wireless bravia,WirelessBravia ]

Telefónica and Philips testing no-glasses-necessary 3D IPTV, got €18,000 we can borrow?

Sao Paulo, Brazil stand up, you're first in line for auto-stereoscopic (read: no glasses) 3D IPTV broadcasts courtesy of Telefonica/TVA and, we assume, that swank WOWvx-powered 1080p 52-inch Philips 3D HDTV promised to hit shelves by year end. Fortunately it now has a price, unfortunately, that price is €18,000 and requires you live in the Jardins neighborhood, hooked up to its fiber network in order to have the capacity to suck down all that 3D. Consumer accessibility is pegged at "inside three or four years", so you start saving, the SMPTE will figure out how to make it all work, and we'll sit back and remember how awesome Captain EO was that one time at Epcot Center. Everyone has to do their part.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 1080p,3 d,3D,auto stereoscopic,AutoStereoscopic,captain eo,CaptainEo,fiber,jardins,philipcs,sao paulo,SaoPaulo,telefonica ]

Criterion Collection uses PS3 as reference Blu-ray player

Yeah, you read that correctly -- the obsessive audiophiles / videophiles at the Criterion Collection use Sony's PlayStation 3 as its reference Blu-ray player. In all honesty, we can't say we're too surprised. Time and again, Sony's latest console has been rated very highly as a dedicated BD deck, and the plentiful firmware updates ensure that it's always at the forefront of whatever interactive functionality is next. This snippet of factual goodness was extracted from a recent writeup that took an in-depth look at how the CC would be revamping its home theater, and even famed calibration guru Joe Kane gave his approval at using the console for playing back Blu-ray Discs. The real kicker? They also settled upon a DVIGear HDMI cable over one of those obscenely overpriced Ogre cables -- and that was after running clean out of coat hangers.

[Via: CNET ]
[Tag: bd,blu-ray,blu-ray player,Blu-rayPlayer,Criterion,Criterion collection,CriterionCollection,joe kane,JoeKane,playstation 3,Playstation3,ps3,reference player,ReferencePlayer,sony ]

Funai aims to bring LCD HDTV / Blu-ray combo units to North America

When Westinghouse launched its 40-inch LCD HDTV / DVD combo unit earlier this year, we really began to think of just how nice it'd be to broaden Blu-ray's appeal by shoving a drive into a new set for those looking for simplicity. Enter Funai -- the company currently responsible for the lowest priced standalone BD deck on the market -- which is reportedly aiming to loose an LCD HDTV with built-in Blu-ray player on the North American market next summer. The company typically brands its wares with names like Sylvania, Symphonic and Emerson, so we wouldn't expect the highest-end stuff here. That said, we're glad to see someone taking this very necessary step, even though you won't catch us recommending 'em to anyone but the technologically challenged.
[Via: CrunchGear ]
[Tag: bd,blu-ray,canada,combo,Emerson,funai,hdtv,lcd hdtv,lcd tv,lcd tv combo,LcdHdtv,LcdTv,LcdTvCombo,north america,NorthAmerica,Sylvania,Symphonic,usa ]

Switched On: Rethinking the living room PC

Even as Microsoft continues to support broadcasting standards around the world to bolster Media Center's support for broadcast television, the future of noisy, black 17-inch-wide boxes sharing a cramped cabinet with your stereo receiver remains in jeopardy. Indeed, the future of the living room PC may be sitting in your lap.
When Microsoft announced the Media Center edition of Windows XP, it was in some ways the desktop counterpart to the Tablet PC mutation. Whereas the Tablet PC was envisioned as a new form factor for notebooks, Media Center held the promise of transforming the desktop into its own new form factor. Indeed, in one of Bil Gates's final CES keynotes promoting innovative PC designs, he didn't mention desktops at all, referring to stationary computers as "entertainment PCs" in an AV component style.
But while a few companies continue to sell Media Center PCs explicitly designed for connection to a television -- among them Sony, Alienware, and companies targeting custom installers such as Niveus Media, the form factor hasn't taken off for a variety of reasons. Microsoft, in turn, has focused more on Media Center Extenders such as the Xbox 360 and HP MediaSmart Connect to bring the Media Center experience to the big-screen TV. And despite some technological improvements coming to help the cause, that situation is unlikely to change dramatically.
Intel, for example, considers a small, quiet set-top PC a target for the low-cost, low-power Atom processor better known for living inside netbooks for now. And more OCUR (OpenCable Unidirectional Receiver) tuner cards and USB adapters, which would bring better cable connectivity, are in the works. These should simplify the recording of TV programs to the PC for digital cable subscribers.
Yet, many of those who wouldn't think of buying a stationery PC to function as a digital video recorder already regularly tap away on notebook PCs on their couches. These notebooks increasingly boast the processing power and disk capacity to handle high-definition video. Most of them running Vista have Media Center capabilities. Some include Blu-ray drives, and more are sporting HDMI connectors. Unlike an Alienware Hangar 18, they may not be able to record television programming as a TiVo can, however, they are increasingly tapping into a rapidly expanding universe of broadband-delivered content sources. This is video that most of their users will likely want to share on a big screen at some point.
And when they do, there will increasingly be a variety of wireless ways in which to do so. Options available today include ad hoc streaming to an Apple TV or D-Link's PC2TV product, which uses Quartics' technology to wirelessly transmit whatever is on a PC's screen with little regard for file formats, codecs, or rights management schemes. Wireless solutions in the works, like WHDI or WirelessHD, would support smooth 1080p playback.
Until then, there's likely an opportunity for some manufacturer or accessory maker to create an AV dock similar to those we've seen for the iPod or Zune, but for notebook PCs. The dock could have wired Ethernet or powerline networking and HDMI. It might even include digital video recording capabilities. Dock the notebook and your recorded TV shows are copied to your PC. Archos has already journeyed quite a ways down this road, sidestepping Windows with its Archos TV and 5th generation portable media players. While Microsoft has primed the pump for broadcast TV alternatives on Media Center with its Internet TV option, it needs to step up efforts to ease discovering and organizing Web video through the Media Center user interface.
The emergence of the notebook PC as a more video-savvy primary living room PC may not be the desktop panacea that Microsoft and PC manufacturers originally wanted. And the continuing challenges around the PC as a DVR means that only a fraction of the TV content that consumers would ideally want would easily and inexpensively get on their computers. On the other hand, this evolution of the notebook PC not only means a fresh start to bringing the PC into the living room. It also enables bringing the living room to any room.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: apple tv,AppleTv,archos tv,ArchosTv,featured,Media Center,MediaCenter,ocur,switched on,SwitchedOn,whdi ]

InFocus minds the budget with its Play Big IN80 projector

While we won't complain about the performance or styling of InFocus' Play Big IN83 projector, the $6,000 price tag is a little steep. Sure, it's got that 1080p DarkChip4 DLP and styling that don't look like you "borrowed" it from the boardroom, but that $6,000 price tag gives us pause. InFocus is adding the Play Big IN80 model to the lineup to fill the gap, though. The specs put the IN80 above the company's X10 model -- it packs a 1080p DarkChip with BrilliantColor, can pump out 1300 lumens in the snow scenes and shares the design with its IN83 big brother, so you won't be tempted to try out your PowerPoints at home. Best of all, though is the MSRP ?1,299 ($2500) when it ships in September.

[Via: AboutProjectors ]
[Tag: darkchip,in80,infocus,l 1080p,L1080p,pj,play big,PlayBig,projector,ti ]

The Wii finally gets DVD playback -- no thanks to Nintendo

Carrying on the rich hacker tradition of picking up the slack for companies that are unwilling or unable to provide the functionality users need, a team of Wii coders have given the console what Nintendo could not: DVD playback. By installing a small, hidden channel on a system, this package blesses the console with a libdi file (DVD access library), and allows you to watch your favorite videos with the MPlayer application, an open source media player. The install file will run on modded and unmodded systems, and the software is also capable of playing media from SD cards (though it's experimental right now). Finally Wii owners can join the ranks of, well... pretty much everyone else.

[Via: TehSkeen ]
[Tag: dvd,dvd playback,DvdPlayback,hack,hackers,libdi,mod,modders,mplayer,nintendo,wii ]

Sony's PlayTV DVR for PS3 delayed to September 19th

Er, you know that September 10th, €99 (about ?78) PlayTV launch announced by David Reeves? Well, turns out that the Sony Europe president jumped the gun or the product's been dragged through a trough of delay. Whatever the case, Sony Europe told Eurogamer that the PS3 TV tuner / DVR add-on will launch on the 19th of September now and cost a bit less at just 70 Quid. It's also said to be HD ready should local DVB-T broadcasters decide to throw that switch.

[Via: PS3 Fanboy ]
[Tag: david reeves,DavidReeves,dvr,europe,playstation 3,Playstation3,playtv,ps3,sony,tuner,uk ]

VUDU announces $0.99 extended rentals, "99 for 99" movie channel

Shortly after picking up its very own adult channel, VUDU is announcing a more, shall we say, family friendly bit today. Effective immediately, VUDU users will be able to renew any SD rental for $0.99 within seven days of first viewing the film, while renewals of HD rentals will cost $1.99. Additionally, VUDU has launched a new "99 for 99" movie channel which contains a rotating list of 99 films that can be rented for -- you guessed it -- just south of a Washington. Interestingly, VUDU calls the deals "summer blockbuster specials," though there's no sign of an end date for either. Can't say this totally changes the way we see the movie set-top-box, but it's certainly a step in the right direction. Full release after the jump.
VUDU ANNOUNCES 99 CENT SUMMER BLOCKBUSTER SPECIAL
VUDU Enables Rental Renewal for 99 Cents and Launches "99 for 99" Movie Channel.
First Major Shift in Rental Window Policy in Digital Delivery Category
SANTA CLARA, CA – August 13, 2008 – VUDU, the company that brings instant access to 1080p HD entertainment to the living room, today announced a summer movie extravaganza that will let viewers rent recent blockbuster hits and cinematic classics for just 99 cents from VUDU's groundbreaking service.
Extended Rental for $0.99: Starting immediately, the VUDU service will allow viewers to renew any standard definition video rental for just 99 cents within seven days of first viewing a film. The 99 cents video renewal is a first in the digital delivery category and guarantees that VUDU owners receive the most generous rental renewal policy in the industry. The rental of high definition movies can be extended for $1.99.
99 for 99: Simultaneously, VUDU launched a movie channel called "99 for 99". Its editorial team selected 99 blockbuster films each available to rent for 99 cents. New films will be rotated into the channel to ensure that new mega-hits are always available throughout the year.
"In this age of $4-a-gallon gas and staycations, we felt that VUDU customers deserved a break and should be able to watch a great film for just 99 cents," said Patrick Cosson, VP of Marketing for VUDU. "These initiatives are groundbreaking. Our 99 cent rental renewal is a first in our industry and will make it easier for our viewers to finish watching a great movie when it fits their schedule, not ours."
VUDU enables high-speed broadband customers to get instant access through their TV to a vast selection of top-quality video entertainment including HD movies, more than 1,000 hit television episodes and more than 6,000 movies from all major studios and over 50 independent distributors. VUDU delivers movies directly to consumers' homes as they are released by the studios on DVD and maintains an up-to-date library of new releases and classic movies.
About VUDU
VUDU is dedicated to bringing instant access to video entertainment, including thousands of mainstream movies, to every living room. Through relationships with every major US movie studio and more than 50 independent studios and distributors, VUDU gives movie fans the ultimate in flexibility and choice. Consumers can finally watch what they want, when they want-no planning needed, no computer necessary, no software downloads, and no cable TV service or satellite subscription required.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 99 for 99,99For99,digital downloads,DigitalDownloads,extended rentals,ExtendedRentals,films,hd rentals,HdRentals,movies,online video,OnlineVideo,rentals,vudu ]

Microsoft scouting exclusive video content for Zune

Now that the Zune's most vocal (and deranged) proponent has apparently jumped ship, Microsoft is looking for some other method of gaining market share. The most recent report on reinvigorating the portable media player has Redmond execs looking low and high at talent agencies and production companies in hopes of "licensing exclusive original video programming." According to Richard Winn, director of entertainment development at Zune, the company is searching for "non-conventional programming that can capitalize on the device's social networking platform." Details are unsurprisingly scant at the moment, but Winn also noted that the outfit was looking for something that "iTunes or any competing service" couldn't provide. We hear Vongo's going for a song... just sayin'.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: content,dap,exclusive,microsoft,pmp,programming,social,zune,zune social,ZuneSocial ]

Popcorn Hour's A-110 HD media streamers gets hands-on treatment

While we can only imagine that the lead time for one of Popcorn Hour's A-110 HD media streamers is at least a week or so judging by the demand of the predecessor, at least one of these things has managed to make its way out. CNET's UK branch was able to wrap their paws around the latest Networked Media Tank, and while they did note that the design was essentially the same, the changes that were made (HDMI 1.3a in particular) were "seriously worthwhile." For a brief preview and a few more shots, check out the read link below.
[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: a-110,hands-on,hd media streamer,hd media streaming,HdMediaStreamer,HdMediaStreaming,media streamer,MediaStreamer,networked media tank,NetworkedMediaTank,popcorn hour,PopcornHour,stream,streaming ]

Sony introduces X4500- and W4500-Bravia series LCD HDTVs in Europe

Not content to leave its recently-announced V4500 LCDs to fend for itself in the European market, Sony has brought backup in the form of the X4500 and W4500 Bravia models. The X4500 series is available in 40-, 46- and 55-inch sizes and features a "floating" design that should compliment the optional colored speaker covers quite nicely, thank you. Meh -- we're personally more enthusiastic about the locally-dimming LED backlight, DLNA support and the sheer number of speakers packed into the cabinet (eight on the 55-inch model, six on the smaller ones). We're also curious to see Sony's "IB Reduction" in effect, combined with interlaced backlight dimming that promises to reduce motion blur without introducing flicker. The W4500 series seems like a modest step down the Bravia ladder and is available in 40-, 46- and 52-inch sizes. The W4500 series also has DLNA and LED backlighting with IB Reduction, but no mention of local-dimming. Full press release and more pics after the break.
EDIT: The W4500 models do not have an LED backlight.
Ultimate picture quality. Ultimate looks.
Introducing the state of the art BRAVIA™ X4500 and W4500 series

Aug 12, 2008
BRAVIA™ X4500 series
* Full HD 1080p
* Graceful floating design with translucent frame
* Best-ever clarity, colour, contrast and definition with BRAVIA™ ENGINE 2 PRO
* Rich, deep colours, superb contrast and reduced power consumption from new RGB Dynamic LED backlight (46, 55-inch)
* Smoother, sharper fast-moving action with Motionflow PRO100Hz technology (46, 55-inch)
* Enjoy digital music and photos from networked DLNA devices
BRAVIA™ W4500 series
* Full HD 1080p
* Innovative styling inspired by new 'draw the LINE' design concept
* Superb clarity, colour and contrast with BRAVIA™ ENGINE 2
* Smoother, sharper fast-moving action thanks to Motionflow 100Hz with Image Blur Reduction technology
* Enjoy digital music and photos from networked DLNA devices
12th August 2008 - Whether you're into the latest movies on Blu-ray™ Disc, nail-biting PLAYSTATION®3 games or sparkling HD broadcasts, there's a mouthwatering choice of BRAVIA™ televisions for serious viewers who demand the ultimate entertainment experience.
"The unique blend of advanced technology and leading design of both the BRAVIA™ X4500 and slim speaker systems, mean that consumers can now view crystal-clear images with atmospheric sound without compromising on the look and feel of their home", explained George Damigos, General Manager, Marketing, TV Marketing Europe.
"Together with the feature-packed W4500 series, these two new BRAVIA™ ranges represent the absolute pinnacle of Sony innovation in bringing you the best-looking pictures and an unmatched home theatre experience."
BRAVIA™ X4500 series: the very last word for serious home theatre fans

The stunning flagship of the BRAVIA™ range, the top-of-the-range X4500 series represents the very last word in unmatched picture quality and breathtaking design.
Available in three screen sizes (40-inch, 46-inch, 55-inch), it's packed with state-of-the-art Sony technologies to deliver Full HD 1080p pictures and dynamic sound that effortlessly surpass anything you've seen before. With no less than 4x HDMI ports for connection with a wide array of HD sources, the X4500 series is the ultimate choice for discerning home cinema enthusiasts who demand an uncompromised theatrical experience.
Thanks to a unique new 'floating' design, the exquisite looks of the X4500 series are guaranteed to grab your attention before the TV is even turned on. In addition to the supplied sterling silver speaker covers, there's a choice of optional speaker covers (Ruby Red or Obsidian Black), letting you customise the X4500 series to complement and enhance your personal living space.
To get the absolute best out of your favourite movies, TV broadcasts and games, Sony's new BRAVIA™ ENGINE 2 PRO filters, cleans and optimises image data before it's displayed on the Full HD 1080p LCD panel. As well as reducing picture noise, this powerful processor widens colour range and smooths motion while boosting contrast for deep, cinematic blacks.
For amazing results with any picture source like DVD, the latest-generation DRC (Digital Reality Creation) 3.0 boosts the resolution using advanced up-conversion-technology to stream a Full HD 1080p picture. This ensures detail-packed images that take full advantage of the highly detailed 1920x1080 panel.
A true cinematic experience in your own home demands rich colours and true, deep blacks. For the first time ever, 46-inch and 55-inch X4500 series models feature an energy-efficient RGB Dynamic LED backlight that momentarily dims in dark areas of the picture, reducing light leakage for enhanced contrast and deeper blacks. Clusters of red, green and blue LEDs provide a wider palette of colours than conventional white LED backlights. The result is stunning reproduction of Blu-ray Disc™, DVD and TV broadcast sources, just as the director intended.
46- and 55-inch models excel with smooth, lifelike reproduction of sports and other fast-moving action. Motionflow PRO 100Hz technology intelligently creates extra frames, inserting them into the signal and doubling the displayed frame rate. In addition, 'backlight blinking' successively switches off horizontal backlight portions of the frame with each frame. This significantly reduces picture blur without the fatiguing 'flicker' effect of conventional black frame insertion systems. The 40-inch screen size model also features new IB Reduction. This 'cleans' original frames before new frame insertion for a sharper image still with reduced motion blur.
Along with the W4500 series, the X4500 series is the first BRAVIA™ television that connects seamlessly with other networked devices via DLNA in your home. It's easy to access, share and enjoy digital photos and music with other certified devices around the home – like VAIO Blu-ray Disc™ PCs and other compatible media devices.
You can also view your pictures by inserting a USB Memory stick into the USB input on the side of the TV or by directly connecting your Cyber-shot™ or other digital cameras to your BRAVIA™. Enjoying your detail-packed photos in Picture Frame Mode on a 40 inch or even larger screen will bring your memories back to life.
The ultimate BRAVIA™ entertainment experience is completed by an innovative audio system with 6 main speakers and 2 woofer speakers on the 55X4500 and 4 main and 2 woofer speakers on 40X4500 / 46X4500.
Surround effects can be optimised for sports, live music concerts or movies, or customised for maximum enjoyment of any type of programme. The combination of the ultra-thin shape with the leading technology of the finger speaker and assist woofer produces a remarkably crisp sound quality without altering the style and design of the TV1.
BRAVIA™ W4500 series: incredible images with any HD source
Whether you're into sports, gaming or general TV viewing, the BRAVIA™ W4500 series delivers incredible picture and sound quality to get the very best out of your favourite HD sources.
Available in three screen sizes (40-inch, 46-inch, 52-inch), the set features effortlessly contemporary looks inspired by Sony's audacious 'Draw the Line' design concept. Sharing many of the same picture innovations as its X4500 sibling, the BRAVIA™ W4500 series is packed with latest Sony technology for the best-looking Full HD pictures you've ever seen.
BRAVIA™ ENGINE 2 processing guarantees superb clarity, colour, contrast and definition, while Motionflow 100Hz technology keeps fast-moving action crisp and clear. In addition, new IB Reduction 'cleans' original frames before new frame insertion for a sharper image with reduced blur.
The W4500 series also lets you enjoy multimedia content from other devices on your home network that support the DLNA standard.

[Via: Broadcast Newsroom ]
[Tag: bravia,europe,lcd,lcdtv,led-backlit,ledbacklight,local dimming,LocalDimming,sony,w4500,x4500 ]

soundmatters reveals SLIMstage40 surround bar

Look out, Yamaha / Polk / Vizio / et al., you've got another rival heating up the surround bar game. Destined to hit CEDIA 2008, soundmatters' SLIMstage40 checks in at a luscious 3.3- x 3.4- x 39-inches in size and features 170-watts from eight internal amplifiers. The device houses four Linear Magnetic Drive main / satellite speakers and a trio of down-firing Extreme-Energy subs that are assisted by six mass radiators. Furthermore, you'll find three digital audio inputs (two optical, one coaxial), three analog inputs, a headphone jack, LED-backlit panel, an RS-232 port and an IR remote. Folks interesting in dabbling in faux-surround can snag one now for $899 to $1,199, depending on whether you spring for the bundle including the SUBstage100 subwoofer.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: audio,music,SLIMstage40,sound,sound bar,SoundBar,soundmatters,Surround Bar,SurroundBar ]

Qingbar iPod Projector Puts Sub-Par Images On Upright Tray Tables [Ipod Projector]

Qingbar probably hopes that its MP101 Mini Projector for the iPod/iPhone gets picked up en masse by business travelers looking to turn their seat backs into mini-movie theaters, but we think the image quality might deter all but the blindest travelers from abandoning their tiny screens. According to the specs and the image below, what you're going to get with this portable projector is a 5W LED (with a lumens of 10-15), a 20,000 hour lamp life, and projected image from 15″ to 27″. It's neat, but with no price the "sub par" headline stays put.

[Honla via GadgetGrid]

[Via: Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog ]
[Tag: ]

SlingPlayer 2.0 enters public beta -- without Clip+Sling

SlingPlayer 2.0 was announced way back at CES 2007 (and, uh, re-announced this year) and it looks you'll finally be able to get a taste, public beta style -- but only a taste, since it's missing its most hyped feature, Clip+Sling. If you'll recall, C+S was supposed to let you nab up to 5 minutes of content and share it online with your friends, but it looks like only the local DVR features have made the cut, so while we're still excited about the new 60-minute buffer and EPG, it's not all we've been promised. On the bright side, the holdup isn't technical, it's legal, so once all the appropriate networkd partnerships and contracts have been signed, you'll be clipping and slinging like there's no tomorrow. Other minor changes include a tweaked UI (skin support has been dropped) and (finally!) the death of Slingbox Finder IDs in favor of user accounts. Windows-only for now, with a video demo after the break -- let us know how you're doing in comments!

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: clip plus sling,clip sling,ClipPlusSling,ClipSling,sling,sling box,sling media,sling player,sling player 2.0,SlingBox,SlingMedia,SlingPlayer,SlingPlayer2.0 ]

TASCAM's GT-R1 records impromptu guitar / bass jams

For you axe-slingers who blame your inability to write a new song on the inability to afford a simple, portable recorder, your excuse is officially lame. TASCAM's ingenious GT-R1 affords musicians the ability to simply plug their guitar and / or bass directly in and record using the built-in amp simulator and effects. Better still, the stereo condenser microphones up top allow users to record ambient noise, vocals, off the cuff jam sessions or anything else for that matter. The unit captures in MP3 or WAV format (16- or 24-bit), includes an SD card slot (1GB bundled in) and a USB 2.0 port for offloading files and charging the battery. Newbies can even queue up an MP3 and jam along, and the integrated metronome / chromatic tuner are just icing on an already uber-sweet cake. Word on the street has a price of around €200 ($308), which actually sounds like quite the bargain from here.
[Via: Engadget Deutschland ]
[Tag: bass,GT-R1,guitar,guitar recorder,GuitarRecorder,instrument,music,recorder,TASCAM ]

Iomega ScreenPlay TV Link adds BYO storage multimedia playback to any TV

Although it seems like every TV shipping recently comes with USB ports and DivX compatibility packed in, if all you want is the ability to plug in a drive and play, the Iomega ScreenPlay TV Link may be right for you. Equipped with the same HDMI / component / composite outputs plus WAV, WMA, MPEG-1/2/4, MP3, OGG, AC3, AVI, DivX, XviD and JPEG file formats as the ScreenPlay HD, this unit forgoes the 500GB hard drive -- a far cry from the old ScreenPlay days when it was just a HDD -- in favor of a sleek 3.26 x 3.07 x .78-inch profile weighing less than 4 oz. Plug in your USB flash drive or FAT32 or NTFS formatted HDD and play or upconvert SD content up to 1080i with no problem. Granted it doesn't have the power of a full-fledged media streamer but as a $99.95 take-anywhere box (available now in the U.S., Europe later this month) it's probably worth a look.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: divx,fat32,hdd,iomega,media streamer,MediaStreamer,multimedia,ntfs,screen play,ScreenPlay,screenplay tv link,ScreenplayTvLink,tv link,TvLink,usb ]

Lightspeed Design / InFocus team up on DepthQ 3D projectors

Although high-end projection makers have been figuring out this whole 3D beaming thing for awhile now, Lightspeed Design and InFocus are looking to bring the technology to a wider audience with the introduction of its DepthQ stereoscopic 3D projectors. Available in XGA and WXGA flavors, these PJs promise "rock-solid, 120Hz stereo 3D at 1,280 x 720 or 1,024 x 768 resolution" and feature Texas Instruments' DLP / BrilliantColor technologies, a 2,000:1 contrast ratio and a total weight of just 6.9-pounds. Best of all, these undercut most other single-lens 3D projectors by coming in somewhere under $6,000 apiece, though exact numbers have yet to be disclosed.

[Via: AboutProjectors ]
[Tag: 3d,3d projector,3dProjector,depthq,DepthQ-WXGA,DepthQ-XGA,DLP,infocus,Lightspeed,Lightspeed Design,LightspeedDesign,pj,projector,stereoscopic ]

Sharp intros entry-level SB series of 1080p LCD HDTVs

Oh sure, Sharp's doing the whole OLED thing because of societal pressures, but it's no secret where its passion lies. The outfit best known for its AQUOS brand has just introduced a trio of newcomers aimed at those looking for an "entry-level" HDTV: the 42-inch LC-42SB45U, 46-inch LC-46SB54U and the 52-inch LC-52SB55U. Each of the LCD HDTVs boast a 1,920 x 1,080 resolution panel, glossy piano-black finish, a pair of component jacks, a dedicated PC input and built-in NTSC / ATSC / ClearQAM tuners to boot. As for HDMI sockets, you'll find four on the big fellow, two on the 46-incher and three on the "little guy." The pain? Try $2,299.99 for the LC-52SB55U (available now), $1,699.99 for the LC-46SB54U (also ready to snatch right away) and $1,399.99 for the September-bound LC-42SB45U.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: ATSC,clearQAM,hdmi,hdtv,LC-42SB45U,LC-46SB54U,LC-52SB55U,lcd,lcd hdtv,lcd tv,LcdHdtv,LcdTv,ntsc,SB series,SbSeries,sharp ]

Pioneer finds 20-layer 500GB Blu-ray Disc "feasible"

Now here's a rate of progress we could get used to. Nary a month after Pioneer trumpeted a 400GB Blu-ray Disc, out pops another press release from the firm boasting about a 500 gigger with a score of layers. Based on research at its Tokyo headquarters, specifications have been drafted for an incredibly capacious 500GB BD. Granted, this very company already had plans for a 500GB optical disc nearly four years ago, but there's no time like the present to make this stuff a reality, right?

[Via: TrustedReviews ]
[Tag: 20-layer,500GB,bd,blu-ray,blu-ray disc,blu-ray media,Blu-rayDisc,Blu-rayMedia,data,data storage,DataStorage,milestone,optical,optical media,optical storage,OpticalMedia,OpticalStorage,pioneer,storage,world record,WorldRecord ]

Sony's XEL-1 OLED TV spotted at Sam's Club for $1,748

You can order up Sony's XEL-1 OLED TV from SonyStyle.com right now for $2,499.99 and hope that it ships by tomorrow. Or, you can waltz on down to your local Sam's Club, plunk down for a membership and walk out with the previously mentioned set for just $1,748.51. We can't say for sure if these units are available at Clubs nationwide just yet, but that's a comparatively delicious price for those in the market for an ultra-small, ultrathin OLED TV. Anyone care to guess how cheap this thing will be on Black Friday?

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: available,now available,NowAvailable,OLED,OLED TV,OledTv,on sale,OnSale,retail,Sams club,SamsClub,Sony,wal-mart ]

LG's BD300 Network Blu-ray player to stream Netflix in September

We've been following the rumor since January, today it's official: LG's BD300 Network Blu-ray Disc Player will begin streaming Netflix movies in the US this September. The player will cost "well under $500" and allow Netflix members to stream more than 12,000 standard definition TV and films through the device at no additional increase to their monthly paid subscriptions. Members will use the Netflix website to add movies or TV to their individual instant queues. Movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds when selected from the TV where users can browse, make selections, read synopses, rate movies, and fast-forward / rewind video streams using the BD300's remote control. While specs on the player itself are scarce, we do know that it supports BD Live and LG's SimpLink technology to integrate easily with LG TVs and AV products. One thing's for sure, with this deal announced and those with Roku and the Xbox 360 in the bag, it looks like Netflix is grown-up and ready for the digital age.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: bd live,bd-live,bd300,BdLive,breaking news,BreakingNews,lg,netflix,simplink ]

NEC announces NP41, NP64 mobile projectors

While it's possible they may one day all be replaced by pico projectors, so-called "mobile projectors" are still a mainstay for a good deal of presentation-delivering users out there, and NEC has just introduced two new models for their consideration. Weighing in at a luggable 3.5 pounds apiece, the new NP41 and NP64 DLP projectors each boast a standard 1024 x 768 resolution, along with a 1,600:1 contrast ratio, automatic keystone correction, VGA, RCA, and S-video inputs, and a promised 3,500 hours of lamp life in the projector's eco mode. The only difference between the two, it seems, is a brighter 3,000 lumens on the NP64, compared to 2,300 on the NP41. You'll also have to wait a bit longer to get your hands on the NP41, which will land in October for $999, while the NP61 will start shipping in September for $1,399.

[Via: Electronista ]
[Tag: mobile projector,MobileProjector,nec,np41,np64,projector ]

Engadget HD goes hands-on with ZeeVee's ZvBox

Well, would you look what just arrived at Engadget HD's headquarters? Yep, that's ZeeVee's localcasting ZvBox, and it has been carefully photographed as it danced right out of its packaging. Head on over to take a look at the gallery -- a full review will be following shortly.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: hands-on, hd media streamer, hd streaming, HdMediaStreamer, HdStreaming, media streamer, MediaStreamer, pictures, stream, streaming, unbox, unboxed, unboxing, zeevee, zvbox ]

Popcorn Hour puts A-110 HD media streamer, B-110 mobo up for pre-order

Who knows if Popcorn Hour really is still working on a couple more HD media streamers, but its latest one is definitely up for pre-order. First whispered about a few months back, the $215 A-110 is a revamped A-100 that adds 2.5- / 3.5-inch SATA HDD and USB Slave functionality, HDMI 1.3a support (for full HD audio pass-through) and an optical S/PDIF to replace the coaxial S/PDIF socket. For those of you looking for even more flexibility, you can take a look at the outfit's new B-110 Baseline. This "Home Theater Motherboard" arrives with the media enthusiast in mind, boasting support for HDMI 1.3a, optical / coaxial S/PDIF connectors, four USB 2.0 ports and a mini-ITX form factor. Both pieces should ship out within two to four weeks, but considering just how sticky things were when the A-100 launched, we'd tack on a few weeks to that estimation just in case.
[Thanks, Stephen and Jeff]

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: A-110,B-110,hd media streamer,hd streamer,hd streaming,HdMediaStreamer,HdStreamer,HdStreaming,htpc,media streamer,MediaStreamer,mobo,motherboard,now available,NowAvailable,on sale,OnSale,popcorn hour,PopcornHour,pre-order,stream,streaming ]

Sonos gets official on ZP120 and ZP90, but no new controller

It's been a while since Sonos last had a significant hardware announcement, so welcome into the world their new ZP120 ($500) and Z90 ($350), as well as the $1,000 BU150 bundle (which includes both the new devices and the same original controller). The main difference, which we'd already heard: they now both support SonosNet 2.0, which uses MIMO to double the wireless distance between nodes. Also clear to those paying close attention, the amp-enabled aluminum-clad flagship model (ZP120) has undergone an intense weight loss treatment, leaving it significantly smaller than its predecessor (but still capable of driving 55W of sound).
Sonos is also launching the 2.6 version of its desktop software, which indexes more music than before (65k tracks total) and, surprisingly enough, gives new AND existing users $200 in free music from sites like eMusic and Livedownloads. Of course, the one piece of Sonos gear we've been most longing to see updated -- the $400 controller -- has gone totally untouched, and won't even be getting SonosNet 2.0. Maybe they'll throw us a bone and hook us up with an iPod touch / iPhone controller app in the mean time, but we're not holding our breath. Photos and unboxing / hands-on shots below.
[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: breaking news,BreakingNews,BU150,sonos,zp120,zp90 ]

LG's BD300 Netflix & Blu-ray box lightly stroked

Need some early impressions of how LG's BD300 Blu-ray / Netflix combo player feels from the couch? Crave got some seat time in front of the device last night, finding its handling of Netflix streams basically the same as the Roku Netflix Player, unfortunately with a much larger price tag. The remote's home button may also link up to music and photos from a PC or the USB port, while BD Live support is present and accounted for. Hit the read link for a few more details ahead of the September launch, and hope "well under $500" is more like $399 at most.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: bd live,bd300,BdLive,blu-ray,digital downloads,DigitalDownloads,lg,movie rental,MovieRental,netflix,stream ]

LG takes the wraps off 1,000,000:1 contrast 47LG90 LCD

Never one to let its rival Samsung get too far ahead, LG is rolling out its long awaited local-dimming LED-backlit 1080p LCD (formerly known as the 47LG75) now dubbed the 47LG90. Rocking a $3,599 pricetag when hits shelves in September -- we'll assume it missed the original Q2 2007 projections due to our request for 120Hz motion processing, now included -- a spec sheet from LG Canada indicates a 500cd/m2 brightness rating, 3 HDMI v1.3 inputs, Intelligent Sensor to adjust for lighting conditions, Invisible Speakers, ISFccc calibration ready, USB port and LG's SimpLink control technology. The "unique teardrop design" with blue accents encloses a 5-inch thick package that can't be as slim as its LGX cousin, but we're thinking the LED-enhanced view from the front will make up for it. On paper, the Samsung 9 Series seems to have the edge on price and features, but we'll have to wait and see if reality matches the specs.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 1080p,47lg75,47lg90,isfccc,lcd,led,lg,local dimming,LocalDimming ]