Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Samsung intros 'world's thinnest' external DVD writer, tries to convince you to pack it with your tablet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/samsung-intros-worlds-thinnest-external-dvd-writer/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/samsung-intros-worlds-thinnest-external-dvd-writer/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/26/samsung-intros-worlds-thinnest-external-dvd-writer/#comments Image

Generally, a new optical disk drive is nothing to write home about, but how about one that's specifically purposed for tablets and Ultrabooks? That's the pitch Samsung is selling for its SE-218BB DVD / CD writer, which the company claims is the world's thinnest external ODD -- because what better to go with your svelte computing devices than more pluggable doohickeys? Cynicism aside, Samsung says this $60 add-on is just 14mm tall, "18 percent thinner than conventional DVD writers" and eight percent less weighty than its standard DVD ODD. The bus-powered unit connects via USB, and it'll work with Macs, PCs and devices running Android 3.1 and up. Oddly fascinated? The drive is currently on sale worldwide if you're willing carry it along with you. You'll find full details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Samsung intros 'world's thinnest' external DVD writer, tries to convince you to pack it with your tablet

Samsung intros 'world's thinnest' external DVD writer, tries to convince you to pack it with your tablet originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 06:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcd writerCdWriterdvddvd writerDvdWriterminipostoddoptical disk driveOpticalDiskDriveportablesamsungSE-218BBsveltetabletthinultrabookThu, 26 Apr 2012 06:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Digital music finally outsells physical media, books look on in alarm]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/digital-music-finally-outsells-physical-media/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/digital-music-finally-outsells-physical-media/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/digital-music-finally-outsells-physical-media/#comments Nielsen That sharp sucking of air you heard at the end of 2010, well, that was the record industry wincing as sales of CDs continued to tumble while digital media sales remained flat. The relieved exhale that you just heard echoing through the atmosphere? That was the collective sigh of executives who just picked up the latest Nielsen report indicating that digital music sales are on the rise again and, for the first time ever, have finally surpassed physical media. Sales as a whole were up, but while CDs were down 5.7 percent, digital track sales were up 8.4 percent and digital albums a stunning 19.5 percent (perhaps most interestingly, though, vinyl was up over 36 percent). CDs still outsell virtual albums by a factor of two, but it's clear the trend toward binary media is back on track. It may be a narrow victory but, with 50.3 percent of the market, audio files are new king of the hill. Check out the full report at the source.

Digital music finally outsells physical media, books look on in alarm originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcdsdigital mediadigital musicDigitalMediaDigitalMusicmp3smusicmusic salesMusicSalesnielsennumbersphysical mediaPhysicalMediasalesstatsThu, 05 Jan 2012 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer unveils world's smallest and lightest external Blu-ray burner]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/pioneer-unveils-worlds-smallest-and-lightest-external-blu-ray-b/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/pioneer-unveils-worlds-smallest-and-lightest-external-blu-ray-b/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/pioneer-unveils-worlds-smallest-and-lightest-external-blu-ray-b/#comments BDR-XD04 When describing the current fleet of BD burners on the market, one word that certainly doesn't come to mind -- sleek. Pioneer is aiming to change all that, though, with the BDR-XD04. What it lacks in a catchy name it makes up for with a slim and light clamshell design that doesn't make too many sacrifices in the features department. At just under 8.5oz and 0.55 inches thick, it puts most of its competitors to shame. Now, it settles for just a 6x write speed and skips USB 3.0 in favor of the more common (and slower) 2.0, but it is capable of drawing power entirely from your machines peripheral ports. (Though, you'll have the option of hooking up an AC adapter if you wish.) And don't worry about format support -- the BDR-XD04 will handle everything from quad-layer 128GB BD-Rs to old-school CDs with aplomb. The slim new burner will start shipping in the middle of this month for $150. Full PR is after the break.

Continue reading Pioneer unveils world's smallest and lightest external Blu-ray burner

Pioneer unveils world's smallest and lightest external Blu-ray burner originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BD burnerBD-rBD-REBdBurnerbdr-xd04blu-rayblu-ray burnerBlu-rayBurnerburnerCDcesces 2012Ces2012DVDpioneerpioneer bdr-xd04PioneerBdr-xd04Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows Defender beta gains 'offline' functionality, can run sans-OS]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/windows-defender-beta-gains-offline-functionality-can-run-san/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/windows-defender-beta-gains-offline-functionality-can-run-san/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/windows-defender-beta-gains-offline-functionality-can-run-san/#comments PC users have been using Windows Defender to free themselves from the bane of viruses, malware and spyware for quite a while, but until now, you've needed Microsoft's OS running for it to do its work. That changes with a new beta, which creates bootable CDs or USB sticks that can run the utility. Those interested can begin by downloading the Windows Defender Offline Tool, which'll prompt you for either of those mediums and then install around 300MB of virus hating bits. And remember, because you're statically downloading an almanac of today's viruses, doesn't mean you'll be ready for those tomorrow, so those taking the plunge better remember to stay up to date.

Windows Defender beta gains 'offline' functionality, can run sans-OS originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antivirusbetacdflash driveFlashDrivemalwaremicrosoftmicrosoft windowsmicrosoft windows defenderMicrosoftWindowsMicrosoftWindowsDefenderminipostsecuritytrojanusb flash driveUsbFlashDrivewindowswindows defenderwindows defender offlineWindowsDefenderWindowsDefenderOfflineFri, 09 Dec 2011 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung SE-208BW SmartHub packs DVD writer, we ask why then take it for a spin (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/samsung-se-208bw-smart-media-hub-packs-dvd-writer-we-ask-why-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/samsung-se-208bw-smart-media-hub-packs-dvd-writer-we-ask-why-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/samsung-se-208bw-smart-media-hub-packs-dvd-writer-we-ask-why-th/#comments Is there any better way to ring in 2012 than to drop 129 bills on a shiny new wireless-enabled DVD burner? Absolutely. But if your New Year's resolution includes archiving smartphone pics to optical media and steaming DVD flicks over WiFi, Samsung is prepared to make those nostalgic dreams a reality, with its SE-208BW SmartHub. The premise here is quite familiar -- little black box takes content from an attached storage device and streams it to connected devices over WiFi, or over the Web. Samsung's twist on the traditional model brings optical media into the equation, however, with a CD/DVD burner enabling music and movie playback, along with remote file archival. You'll need to wait until late January (or perhaps early February) before introducing Samsung's shiny streamer to your wired or wireless network, but we got an early look at the new DLNA-enabled gadget today.

If you've used an external DVD burner made in the last decade, you're already familiar with the form-factor employed here -- there's a slim disk tray up front, with full-size and mini USB connectors, Ethernet and a DC input on the rear. This is strictly a streaming device, so there's no HDMI or other AV connectivity -- you'll need to use an Android, iOS or smart TV app, along with Samsung AllShare or an FTP client to access content. We tried steaming 720p video and a few photos using the Android app and the AllShare application included with most recent Samsung devices, and everything worked as expected, with content loading quickly without any hiccups.

You can access files on a connected HDD or USB flash drive remotely from the built-in FTP server, but you'll need to use Samsung's apps to stream DVDs and music CDs from that built-in optical drive, or to burn smartphone pics or other remote files to a blank disc. You can view content directly on your smartphone or tablet, or on a connected TV, using the former device to control playback. The hub also serves as an internet bridge, so you won't lose web access when connected directly over WiFi. There's nothing groundbreaking here, unless the absence of an optical drive has been keeping you from adding such a device to your collection, but jump past the break to see it in action.

Gallery: Samsung Smart Media Hub hands-on

Continue reading Samsung SE-208BW SmartHub packs DVD writer, we ask why then take it for a spin (video)

Samsung SE-208BW SmartHub packs DVD writer, we ask why then take it for a spin (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Access PointAccessPointblu-rayburnercdcd writercddvdcdsCdWriterdvddvd moviedvd writerDvdMoviedvdsDvdWriterhands-onhdpostcrossmediamoviemoviesmusic streamingMusicStreamingnetworknetworkingODDoptical discoptical disc drivesoptical driveOpticalDiscOpticalDiscDrivesOpticalDriveSamsungSamsung SE-208BWSamsungSe-208bwstreamingvideowifiwifi extenderWifiExtenderwirelesswireless burnerWirelessBurnerMon, 05 Dec 2011 12:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Lego CD / DVD ripper lets you drop your physical media -- literally (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/lego-cd-dvd-ripper-lets-you-drop-your-physical-media-litera/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/lego-cd-dvd-ripper-lets-you-drop-your-physical-media-litera/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/lego-cd-dvd-ripper-lets-you-drop-your-physical-media-litera/#comments If the only thing standing between you and a full abandonment of physical media is the tedious task of ripping all of your CDs and DVDs, boy have we got the Lego-based gadget for you. Paul Rea whipped up this little beauty -- it's an Arduino-powered Lego arm that swings to pick up a disc, deposit it in the drive and then drop it (perhaps a bit too literally) into a finished pile. It's not quite perfect -- the arm is a bit loud as it moves, and anyone who's ever owned CDs or DVDs may likely grimace as the thing tosses finished discs into a pile, but it's an entertaining break from what can ultimately prove an arduous task.

Continue reading Lego CD / DVD ripper lets you drop your physical media -- literally (video)

Lego CD / DVD ripper lets you drop your physical media -- literally (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinocddvdlegolegospaul reaPaulReaphysical mediaPhysicalMediarippingvideoTue, 01 Nov 2011 16:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung outs new Blu-ray and media hub drives: dammit, the ODD still lives]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/samsung-outs-new-blu-ray-and-media-hub-drives-the-odd-lives/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/samsung-outs-new-blu-ray-and-media-hub-drives-the-odd-lives/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/samsung-outs-new-blu-ray-and-media-hub-drives-the-odd-lives/#comments You've seen our musings on the continued relevance of optical drives and it seems Samsung agrees entirely: it's just announced two external spinners to keep pace with our "evolving mobile entertainment demands." Er, great Sammy, but how? First off, there's the USB-powered SE-506AB Blu-ray writer depicted above, which will give that awful Pacific boxset one last chance on your ODD-neutered Mac or netbook. But that's not nearly as interesting as the SE-208BW CD/DVD writer, which doubles as a WiFi media hub to stream music and movies to your smartphone, tablet or PC. It works the other way round too: letting you backup content from your mobile device direct to a disc. It even supports Dynamic DNS and can cooperate with a flash drive or HDD to become a "personal cloud server." Still not impressed? This wonder drive additionally functions as a WiFi extender, or it can create an access point from scratch when cabled up to your network. Man, that's ODD OD. The media hub will arrive at the beginning of 2012, while the new Blu-ray drive should be out any time now. No word on pricing, but check out the PR double-shot after the break for the full specs.

Continue reading Samsung outs new Blu-ray and media hub drives: dammit, the ODD still lives

Samsung outs new Blu-ray and media hub drives: dammit, the ODD still lives originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Access PointAccessPointblu-raycdcd writercddvdcdsCdWriterdvddvd writerdvdsDvdWriterhdpostcrossmediamedia hysteriaMediaHysteriamobilepostcrossmoviesmusic streamingMusicStreamingODDoptical discoptical disc drivesoptical driveOpticalDiscOpticalDiscDrivesOpticalDriveSamsungSamsung SE-208BWSamsung SE-506ABSamsungSe-208bwSamsungSe-506abstreamingwifiwifi extenderWifiExtenderFri, 02 Sep 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Waste Landscape installation reminds us why CDs weren't that great (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/waste-landscape-installation-reminds-us-why-cds-werent-that-gre/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/waste-landscape-installation-reminds-us-why-cds-werent-that-gre/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/waste-landscape-installation-reminds-us-why-cds-werent-that-gre/#comments
For most people, the term "waste landscape" may evoke images of desolate industrial zones, toxic sewage leaks, or Phish concerts. But architect Clémence Eliard and artist Elise Morin took a slightly more digital approach to the concept, constructing their undulating Waste Landscape installation from 65,000 unsold (and unwanted) CDs. To do this, the pair sewed the discs together by hand, before blanketing them over dune-like wire constructions inside the Centquatre -- a Parisian art space that, appropriately enough, was once a funeral home. The result is an array of sloping, shimmering hills that emerge from the floor like disco ball pimples, creating a space that the artists not-so subtly compare to an oil spill. It's a pretty sobering reminder of the environmental fingerprint archaic technologies can leave behind, but Eliard and Morin's story has a happy ending. When the exhibit comes to a close, every single CD will be recycled into polycarbonate. Spin past the break to see a video that'll make you wanna give your iPod a hug.

Continue reading Waste Landscape installation reminds us why CDs weren't that great (video)

Waste Landscape installation reminds us why CDs weren't that great (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 20:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart installationArtInstallationcdcentquatreclemence eliardClemenceEliardelise morinEliseMorinenvironmentfranceinstallationlandscapemusicoil spillOilSpillparissculpturevideowasteWaste LandscapeWasteLandscapeThu, 04 Aug 2011 20:11:00 EST<![CDATA[UK set to legalize CD and DVD copying for personal use]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/uk-set-to-legalize-cd-and-dvd-copying-for-personal-use/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/uk-set-to-legalize-cd-and-dvd-copying-for-personal-use/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/uk-set-to-legalize-cd-and-dvd-copying-for-personal-use/#commentsThe fact that it hasn't technically been legal may not have stopped many folks in the UK from ripping their CDs all these years, but it looks like there may soon be a tad less anarchy involved in that process. Reuters is reporting that the British government will announce tomorrow that it plans to legalize the copying of CDs and DVDs onto computers or portable media players for personal use -- a move that will bring it up to speed with most other European countries (and the US and Canada). Of course, the key words there are "personal use." You still won't be legally allowed to share that music over the internet after you copy it without permission, and it's not yet clear how the new rules will apply to DVDs (or Blu-rays) with copy protection measures -- although the British Video Association unsurprisingly doesn't seem too pleased with the changes regardless, calling them "extremely damaging."

UK set to legalize CD and DVD copying for personal use originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 22:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britaincdcd copyingcd rippingCdCopyingCdRippingcdscopyingdvddvdslegalizemediamusicrippingukTue, 02 Aug 2011 22:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial: Apple's officially over the optical drive, for better or worse]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/editorial-apples-officially-over-the-optical-drive-for-better/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/editorial-apples-officially-over-the-optical-drive-for-better/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/editorial-apples-officially-over-the-optical-drive-for-better/#comments I don't like it. Not one iota. But frankly, it doesn't much matter -- Apple's officially done with the optical drive, and there's no evidence more strikingly clear than the mid 2011 refresh of its Mac mini. Last year, that bantam box arrived with a $699 price tag, pep in its step and a personality that could charm even the most hardened desktop owner. This year, a $599 model showed up on my doorstep promising the same, but instead it delivered a noticeable drop in actual functionality. Pundits have argued that you could tether a USB SuperDrive to the new mini and save $20 in the process compared to last year's rig, but does relying on a cabled accessory go hand-in-hand with beauty and simplicity? No, and I've every reason to believe that Apple would agree.

Despite the obvious -- that consumers would buy a mini to reduce the sheer burden of operating a convoluted desktop setup -- Apple's gone and yanked what has become a staple in both Macs and PCs alike. For years, ODDs have been standard fare, spinning CDs, DVDs, HD-DVDs (however briefly) and Blu-ray Discs, not to mention a few other formats that didn't do much to deserve a mention. Compared to most everything else in the technology universe, the tried-and-true optical drive has managed to hang around well beyond what it's creator likely had in mind, but it's pretty obvious that 2011 is to the ODD what 1998 was to the floppy drive. At least in the mind of one Steven P. Jobs.

Continue reading Editorial: Apple's officially over the optical drive, for better or worse

Editorial: Apple's officially over the optical drive, for better or worse originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleblu-rayblu-ray discBlu-rayDisccddvddvd burnerdvd writerDvdBurnerDvdWritereditorialmac minimacbookmacbook airmacbook proMacbookAirMacbookProMacMinioddoptical driveOpticalDriveslot loadingslot-loadingSlotLoadingsuperdriveWed, 27 Jul 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[JVC Kaboom adds a guitar input, dares you to get the band back together]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/jvc-kaboom-adds-a-guitar-input-dares-you-to-get-the-band-back-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/jvc-kaboom-adds-a-guitar-input-dares-you-to-get-the-band-back-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/jvc-kaboom-adds-a-guitar-input-dares-you-to-get-the-band-back-t/#comments New audio input capabilities are nothing new for JVC, but soon you'll be able to show off your guitar chops alongside whatever bands you choose to idolize -- so long as you're kosher with rocking a boombox atop your left shoulder, of course. The company has announced that the 2011 offering from its Kaboom line will showcase a guitar / microphone input (1/4-inch) with mixing capabilities to allow for gigs to be played from anywhere you darn well please. The RV-NB70 will have all the key ingredients of previous models, including an iPod dock (updated to be both iPod and iPhone compatible), a USB host that enables use of a mass storage device, an audio input and CD / radio playback. True to the original's design, this fellow features much of the same look while promising 40 watts of guitar soloing power. Your next box 'o fury can be had right now for $299.95, and if you're eager for an encore, the full presser (as well as a demo vid) is just past the break.

Continue reading JVC Kaboom adds a guitar input, dares you to get the band back together

JVC Kaboom adds a guitar input, dares you to get the band back together originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40wattsACanywhereaudioboomboxCDDCdockFMtunerguitarguitar inputGuitarInputinputiPhoneiPodjackJVCkaboommassstoragemicrophonemixermixingMP3musicperformanceremotecontrolRV-NB70soundstereosystemUSBvideoWMAThu, 16 Jun 2011 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Erase a CD like a boss (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/erase-a-cd-like-a-boss-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/erase-a-cd-like-a-boss-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/19/erase-a-cd-like-a-boss-video/#comments And here we thought that electricity was only good for reanimating monsters.

Continue reading Erase a CD like a boss (video)

Erase a CD like a boss (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 06:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcdromelectricityerasetransformervideovoltagevoltsTue, 19 Apr 2011 06:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega Genesis CDX now portable thanks to Ben Heck (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/sega-genesis-cdx-now-portable-thanks-to-ben-heck-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/sega-genesis-cdx-now-portable-thanks-to-ben-heck-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/08/sega-genesis-cdx-now-portable-thanks-to-ben-heck-video/#comments It's no Bill Paxton Pinball, but Ben Heck's portable Sega Genesis CDX is certainly up there in terms of superfluous gaming mods. As Heck points out, a lot of the console's games were "FMV nonsense," but, like most gaming systems, the 1994-released CDX had its ardent supporters. For those of you who fit the description, Heck's combined the CD drive and motherboard from an old CDX with a chopped six-button Genesis controller, an old camcorder battery, and a four-inch LCD screen to bring you a bulky but portable console. Now you can enjoy a game of Snatcher at the laundromat while your Sonic the Hedgehog Underoos hit the spin cycle. Check out the video after the jump.

Continue reading Sega Genesis CDX now portable thanks to Ben Heck (video)

Sega Genesis CDX now portable thanks to Ben Heck (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CDCDXconsolegamesgaming consoleGamingConsoleGenesishandheldhandheld gamingHandheldGamingmodmodsportableportable gamingPortableGamingSegaSega CDXSega GenesisSega Genesis CDXSegaCdxSegaGenesisSegaGenesisCdxvideovideogameVideoGamesTue, 08 Feb 2011 08:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Teac goes retro (again) with CD burner-equipped SL-D920 radio]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/21/teac-goes-retro-again-with-cd-burner-equipped-sl-d920-radio/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/21/teac-goes-retro-again-with-cd-burner-equipped-sl-d920-radio/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/21/teac-goes-retro-again-with-cd-burner-equipped-sl-d920-radio/#comments
It may not boast some of the more newfangled features like built-in WiFi, but we're guessing that Teac's new SL-D920 radio packs enough retro flavor to attract plenty of interest nonetheless. In addition to that familiar throwback design (available in red, white or black), the radio packs a built-in CD burner to either play CDs or record from the radio, a USB port to connect an MP3-filled storage device, and a line-in jack to accommodate the media player of your choice -- plus a pair of 5W speakers and a 10W subwoofer. Unfortunately, there's no word on a release over here, but this one's available in Japan right now for ¥20,000 or about $230.

Teac goes retro (again) with CD burner-equipped SL-D920 radio originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 15:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdCD playersCdPlayersMP3 playersMp3PlayersradioretroSL-D920teacteac SL-D920TeacSl-d920Tue, 21 Sep 2010 15:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeff Mills' vinyl and CD hybrid disc unites young and old]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/17/jeff-mills-vinyl-and-cd-hybrid-disc-unites-young-and-old/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/17/jeff-mills-vinyl-and-cd-hybrid-disc-unites-young-and-old/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/17/jeff-mills-vinyl-and-cd-hybrid-disc-unites-young-and-old/#comments Whether you like it old school or new, techno DJ/producer Jeff Mills has the disc for you. Manufactured by Optimal Media using tech it introduced a few years back, the disc features a 5-inch vinyl pressing on one side and a digital CD on the other. But for $35, it had better ship with an adapter to keep it centered on the turntable's spindle (unlike the picture above). If the vinyl/CD hybrid isn't kooky enough for your experimental tastes then why not consider sharing your talent on Optimal Media's scratch and sniff discs -- why should the stench of stale beer mixed with gastric acid be limited to your live shows?

Gallery: Vinyl record and CD hybrid disc unites young and old

Jeff Mills' vinyl and CD hybrid disc unites young and old originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 05:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcdromdiscjeff millsJeffMillsmusicoptimal mediaOptimalMediaperfumeperfumedrecordscentedscratch and sniffScratchAndSniffvinylwaxThu, 17 Jun 2010 05:14:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T warns customer that emailing the CEO will result in a cease and desist letter]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/02/atandt-warns-customer-that-emailing-the-ceo-will-result-in-a-cease/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/02/atandt-warns-customer-that-emailing-the-ceo-will-result-in-a-cease/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/02/atandt-warns-customer-that-emailing-the-ceo-will-result-in-a-cease/#comments Sure, Steve Jobs might be a one-man email PR machine, but his pal Randall Stephenson at AT&T doesn't appear to be quite as gregarious -- as reader Giorgio Galante found out today, sending AT&T's CEO two emails in two weeks results in a phone call from AT&T's Executive Response Team and a warning that further emails will result in a cease and desist letter. What did Giorgio's emails say? The first was a request to bump up his iPhone eligibility date and a request for a tethering option, and today's outlined his displeasure with AT&T's new data rates and ultimate decision to switch to Sprint and the EVO 4G. That prompted "Brent" to call Giorgio back and thank him for the feedback, but also politely warn him that further emails would be met with legal action. Ouch. As you'd expect, AT&T just lost itself a customer. We've followed up with Ma Bell to find out exactly why they went the lawyer route instead of oh, say, filtering Randall's email -- we'll let you know what they say.

P.S.- Amusingly, Giorgio says he emailed both Randall Stephenson and Steve Jobs last year about offering tethering and actually got a response from Steve -- maybe these two CEOs need to talk about more than data rates and service quality the next time they meet up.

AT&T warns customer that emailing the CEO will result in a cease and desist letter originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>at and tat tAtAndTAtTc and dCAndDcdcease and desistcease desistCeaseAndDesistCeaseDesistgiorgiogiorgio galanteGiorgioGalantelegalrandall stephensonRandallStephensonstephensontetherWed, 02 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's last cassette-blastin' boom box is precisely how Ruff Ryders roll('d)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/19/sonys-last-cassette-blastin-boom-box-is-precisely-how-ruff-ryd/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/19/sonys-last-cassette-blastin-boom-box-is-precisely-how-ruff-ryd/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/19/sonys-last-cassette-blastin-boom-box-is-precisely-how-ruff-ryd/#comments Sony may not shed a tear for the 3.5-inch floppy disk when it meets its maker in March, but you'd better believe the company's crafted a retirement plan for the format that propelled it to fame: the compact cassette. To be fair, the CFD-A110 CD / cassette boom box above isn't actually a new product -- it's a relabeled CFD-A100TV from 2003 minus the nigh-obsolete analog TV band -- but if you're rocking magnetic mix tapes we're guessing you'll welcome this blast from the past. For your projected ¥20,000 (about $215) you'll get a pair of full-range speakers, 14 AM/FM presets, an external microphone port for karaoke and a remote when it launches in Japan this June 21st. What that won't buy you, however, is an obnoxiously large gilded chain, a beefed up left shoulder for carrying it around, and a time machine needed to actually fit in while using this. Ya heard?

Sony's last cassette-blastin' boom box is precisely how Ruff Ryders roll('d) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 May 2010 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioawesomeboom boxBoomBoxcassettecdcd playerCdPlayerCFD-A100TVdeathkillkilledmilestonemusicold schoolOldSchoolretrosonystereotapevintageWed, 19 May 2010 08:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer's new CD deck and mixer feature MIDI integration, USB for external storage]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/pioneers-new-cd-deck-and-mixer-feature-midi-integration-usb-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/pioneers-new-cd-deck-and-mixer-feature-midi-integration-usb-fo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/26/pioneers-new-cd-deck-and-mixer-feature-midi-integration-usb-fo/#comments
If you're looking for a product designed to "transform novices" (that is, you) into "the next generation DJ" (that is, Sven Vath) you're in luck: Pioneer has just announced a CD deck / mixer combo that includes the usual compliment of features (looping capabilities, a visual beat display, BPM lock, so on, and so forth) as well as some computer-friendly touches, including MIDI integration -- allowing you to use either as a control surface for your fave DJ software. The CDJ will also play music off your thumb drive, and the mixer itself accepts external USB storage device for saving your mixes as WAV files. Sure, in our day all one needed were two turntables and a crossfader to rock the party -- but that was a long time ago, kids. The CDJ-350 and DJM-350 will be available in June 2010 for $850 and $750, respectively. We've only scratched the surface here, however -- peep the PR below for all the vital details.

Continue reading Pioneer's new CD deck and mixer feature MIDI integration, USB for external storage

Pioneer's new CD deck and mixer feature MIDI integration, USB for external storage originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 11:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CDCD deckCdDeckCDJCDJ-350DJM-350mixermusic makingMusicMakingpioneerpro audioProAudioFri, 26 Mar 2010 11:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Grant Fidelity's $3,200 Impression II weds CD player, tube amp and overkill]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/grant-fidelitys-3-200-impression-ii-weds-cd-player-tube-amp-a/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/grant-fidelitys-3-200-impression-ii-weds-cd-player-tube-amp-a/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/grant-fidelitys-3-200-impression-ii-weds-cd-player-tube-amp-a/#comments
See that? That's a $3,200 CD player, which will be impossible to justify for pretty much anyone not featured on Joan Rivers' newest TV show. Designed and produced by Grant Fidelity, the CD-1000 Impression II packs a high-end Sanyo CD drive, tube analog output, tube headphone amplifier and a rather basic display screen, while the "anti-vibration aluminum chassis" tries as hard as it can to look both unorthodox and absurdly expensive. It's hard to say if your burnt MP3 discs will actually sound better on this thing (okay, so they won't), but at least you can rest easy knowing that shipping on this 50 pound beast is completely gratis.

[Via OhGizmo]

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Grant Fidelity's $3,200 Impression II weds CD player, tube amp and overkill originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiocdcd playerCD-1000CdPlayerexpensiveGrant FidelityGrantFidelityhdhome audioHomeAudioimpression 2impression IIImpression2ImpressionIiluxurymusicother formatsotherformatstubeWed, 09 Sep 2009 06:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Grant Fidelity's $3,200 Impression II weds CD player, tube amp and overkill]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/grant-fidelitys-3-200-impression-ii-weds-cd-player-tube-amp-a/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/grant-fidelitys-3-200-impression-ii-weds-cd-player-tube-amp-a/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/grant-fidelitys-3-200-impression-ii-weds-cd-player-tube-amp-a/#comments
See that? That's a $3,200 CD player, which will be impossible to justify for pretty much anyone not featured on Joan Rivers' newest TV show. Designed and produced by Grant Fidelity, the CD-1000 Impression II packs a high-end Sanyo CD drive, tube analog output, tube headphone amplifier and a rather basic display screen, while the "anti-vibration aluminum chassis" tries as hard as it can to look both unorthodox and absurdly expensive. It's hard to say if your burnt MP3 discs will actually sound better on this thing (okay, so they won't), but at least you can rest easy knowing that shipping on this 50 pound beast is completely gratis.

[Via OhGizmo]

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Grant Fidelity's $3,200 Impression II weds CD player, tube amp and overkill originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiocdcd playerCD-1000CdPlayerexpensiveGrant FidelityGrantFidelityhome audioHomeAudioimpression 2impression IIImpression2ImpressionIiluxurymusictubeWed, 09 Sep 2009 06:58:00 EST<![CDATA[McIntosh sneaks MVP881BR universal BD player into its lineup]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/20/mcintosh-sneaks-mvp881br-universal-bd-player-into-its-lineup/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/20/mcintosh-sneaks-mvp881br-universal-bd-player-into-its-lineup/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/20/mcintosh-sneaks-mvp881br-universal-bd-player-into-its-lineup/#commentsMcIntosh MVP881BR universal player You didn't really think that McIntosh would let its sister company, Denon, court all the well-heeled Blu-ray shoppers, did you? The company that has long stuck by blue lighting has added the MVP881BR universal Blu-ray player (Blu-ray, SACD, DVD-A, DVD and CD) to its lineup; a perfect match for the company's Blu-ray ready MX150AV controller. As you'd expect from McIntosh, the specs are top-notch without being tech-laden, with Profile 2.0, onboard lossless decoding, analog outputs and 32-bit DACs making the cut. No word on bitstreaming support, but we'd be shocked if the McIntosh unit went missing a checkmark that the Denon flagship deck hits -- in fact, given the engineering that was poured into the Denon, we'd be surprised if the McIntosh wasn't a variation (including chiclet buttons) on the DVD-A1UDCI. No pricing info, but if you make it past the McIntosh velvet rope, money's not a problem.

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McIntosh sneaks MVP881BR universal BD player into its lineup originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-rayblu-ray playerBlu-rayPlayerbluraycddvd-advd-audiohdmcintoshmvp881brotherssacduniversal blu-ray playerUniversalBlu-rayPlayerThu, 20 Aug 2009 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Moldover CD case rocks a light theremin, our socks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/video-moldover-cd-case-rocks-a-light-theremin-our-socks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/video-moldover-cd-case-rocks-a-light-theremin-our-socks/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/19/video-moldover-cd-case-rocks-a-light-theremin-our-socks/#comments When a tip comes in touting video of another so-called YouTube "musical genius" it's hard to fight through the blasé glaze in which we find ourselves entombed. Still, one indifferent mouse-click later and we're treated to Moldover's Awesome Edition CD. The awesome part is the custom-designed circuit board that accompanies the CD and lists the tracks while doubling as a theremin instrument with headphone jack -- all in a standard-size jewel case. Hit the on button and start making 'music' by waving your hand in front of the light sensors. Sure it sounds a bit like you're squeezing air through a pinched balloon and it costs $50 ($10 for CD-only or $25 for a Pocket Edition), but hey, give this guy some credit for innovation. Check the video after the break, you will believe at the 1-minute mark.

[Thanks, Rich DDT]

Continue reading Video: Moldover CD case rocks a light theremin, our socks

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Video: Moldover CD case rocks a light theremin, our socks originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 03:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdinstrumentjewel caseJewelCasemoldovermusicportable audioportableaudiothereminWed, 19 Aug 2009 03:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Millenniata's Millennial Disk should last longer than you, your memory]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/18/millenniatas-millennial-disk-should-last-longer-than-you-your/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/18/millenniatas-millennial-disk-should-last-longer-than-you-your/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/18/millenniatas-millennial-disk-should-last-longer-than-you-your/#comments
Considering that we're still waiting patiently for any company (we're looking at you, Call/Recall) to produce a commercially viable holographic storage solution, we're required to tackle Millenniata's newest assertion with a sprinkle of skepticism. The claim? It's specially lubricated, fortified and homogenized Millennial Disk is said to last some 1,000 years, making it the world's finest and most longevous archive solution. If it's legitimate. We're told that digital information is carved into layers of hard, "persistent" materials, and somehow, those carvings are able to stay fresh and readable for more years than you care to count. Still, we reckon the robot apocalypse will be in full effect by the time 3009 rolls around, so even if it only lives up to half of its claims, we'll still be impressed.

[Via Slashdot]

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Millenniata's Millennial Disk should last longer than you, your memory originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Jul 2009 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archivearchivingBarry LuntBarryLuntCDdatadiscdvdm-arcMillennial DiskMillennialDiskMillenniataoptical mediaoptical storageOpticalMediaOpticalStoragepersistentrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypsestoragevaporwareSat, 18 Jul 2009 11:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's newest remote control ships with a Z200iR compact music system (updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/01/sonys-newest-remote-control-ships-with-a-z200ir-compact-music-s/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/01/sonys-newest-remote-control-ships-with-a-z200ir-compact-music-s/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/01/sonys-newest-remote-control-ships-with-a-z200ir-compact-music-s/#comments
It's not often that a remote control becomes the centerpiece of a product launch, but man, would you look at that. That's the remote for Sony's NAS-Z200iR, a WiFi-enabled shelf audio system with slot-loading CD and iPod dock. The Z200iR is DLNA-certified so it works with any DLNA device in your home including NAS boxes and of course, your PC or Mac. The re-chargeable remote features a 3.5-inch LCD display that gives you full control over sourced media including Internet radio, integrated AM/FM tuner, or devices connected via the Z200iR's USB or audio-in ports. The sound comes courtesy of a pair of independent, 20-watt speaker enclosures with double neodymium magnets used to drive the bass. A simpler, WiFi-less CMT-Z100iR system will launch first in July with the Z200iR headed to Europe in mid September. Sorry, no prices announced so no joy.

Update: Ready for the pricing? The German press release has the Z200iR at €699. That's nearly $1,000 for a compact sound system that sits on a shelf. Way to go Sony, way to go.

Gallery: Sony's newest remote control ships with a Z200iR compact music system



[Thanks, Daniel O.]

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Sony's newest remote control ships with a Z200iR compact music system (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 04:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcd playerCdPlayercmt-z100irdockipodipod dockIpodDocknas-z200irremote controlRemoteControlshelf systemShelfSystemsonyz100irz200irWed, 01 Jul 2009 04:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Emotiva's ERC-1 reference CD player ships next month for $399]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/emotivas-erc-1-reference-cd-player-ships-next-month-for-399/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/emotivas-erc-1-reference-cd-player-ships-next-month-for-399/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/emotivas-erc-1-reference-cd-player-ships-next-month-for-399/#comments
If you're lovin' that post-modern / art deco look that Emotiva has going on, and you're a sucker for all things audiophile, we've got just the thing to make you $399 poorer. Said outfit has just revealed that its ERC-1 reference CD player will be arriving next month, and aside from the unmistakable design, it'll also bring along Burr Brown OPA2131 Op-amps, an Analog Devices 1955 DAC and a 24 bit-processor. You'll also find (well, you will if you crack things open) separate and sealed power supplies for each working mechanism, which supposedly ensures noise-free listening. Oh, and then there's the glowing blue CD slot, which is totally worth four bills in and of itself.

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Emotiva's ERC-1 reference CD player ships next month for $399 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 15 Mar 2009 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We're not quite sure how much related celebrating went on this past weekend, but the iconic Compact Disc managed to hit the big three-oh. The IEEE was credited with presenting its prestigious IEEE Milestone Award to Royal Philips Electronics for its contribution to the development of the CD, and as the story goes, the award coincides with the 30th anniversary of the "historic demonstration of the first CD prototype codenamed 'Pinkeltje' on March 8th, 1979." While many would argue that the CD is on its way out in favor of smaller, highly portable MP3 files, the disc has definitely left a lasting mark on the industry. To date, over 3.5 billion audio CD players have been sold alongside 240 billion discs. Oh, and not to be a Debbie Downer or anything, but what are the chances that we won't be throwing an "over the hill" party for this here format?

[Thanks, Sylva]

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Compact Disc turns 30, MP3 doesn't bother to send a gift originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 07:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobirthdayCDcompact discCompactDiscIEEEmilestonemusicphilipsPinkeltjeportable audioportableaudiosoundMon, 09 Mar 2009 07:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Psion Teklogix sending out cease & desist letters to netbook-centric websites]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/psion-teklogix-sending-out-cease-and-desist-letters-to-netbook-cen/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/psion-teklogix-sending-out-cease-and-desist-letters-to-netbook-cen/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/24/psion-teklogix-sending-out-cease-and-desist-letters-to-netbook-cen/#comments
Wow, talk about spreading that holiday cheer. Psion Teklogix has apparently hired a legal team to write up cease & desist letters that are being sent out to select netbook enthusiast websites. One particular letter is pictured above, and we can only assume the URL is hidden for the safety of those involved. jkOnTheRun dug a little deeper into the matter and found that the outfit did indeed produce a Netbook and Netbook Pro back in the day, and while the surprisingly netbook-like devices (imagine that, right?) have since been discontinued, it is still making compatible accessories. Something tells us Psion waited a touch too late to pick this fight, but just in case Engadget is next in line for one of these letters, we'll be utilizing the term smallcheap(er)book for the foreseeable future. Hope that's okay.

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Psion Teklogix sending out cease & desist letters to netbook-centric websites originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CDcease and desistCeaseAndDesistnetbookPsionPsion TeklogixPsionTeklogixtermterminologyWed, 24 Dec 2008 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Portable CD players see a resurgence in the UK]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/08/portable-cd-players-see-a-resurgence-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/08/portable-cd-players-see-a-resurgence-in-the-uk/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/08/portable-cd-players-see-a-resurgence-in-the-uk/#comments
Unless you have some unexplained obsession with gadgets of yesteryear, you probably haven't been paying close attention to how many brands of portable CD players your local retailers have been stocking. According to Currys over in the UK, however, it's being pressured to order up truckloads of 'em to satisfy the 50 percent uptick in demand compared to last year. Moreover, John Lewis (a department store) has begun stocking the units again some four years after originally putting them to rest. Analysts are asserting that the lagging economy is leading people to select these devices as stocking stuffers, with their ease-of-use and rock-bottom prices making them highly attractive in the current market. Word to the wise, though -- chances are that special someone would much prefer a low-end 1GB DAP over something they probably already have. Or, you know, a Pizza Express gift card.

Portable CD players see a resurgence in the UK originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 05:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcd playerCdPlayercompact discCompactDisceconomyglobalportable cd playerPortableCdPlayerukMon, 08 Dec 2008 05:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart downsizing shelf space for music CDs, giving more to Blu-ray]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/03/walmart-downsizing-shelf-space-for-music-cds-giving-more-to-blu/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/03/walmart-downsizing-shelf-space-for-music-cds-giving-more-to-blu/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/03/walmart-downsizing-shelf-space-for-music-cds-giving-more-to-blu/#comments
Remember the days of watching big box retailers like a hawk to see if more shelf space was being given to Blu-ray or HD DVD? Yeah, epic times. Now, however, a new report is suggesting that Walmart may be giving more of its packaged media space to Blu-ray Discs rather than music CDs. The reason? A 23% decline in CD sales during the first four weeks of Q4. According to Richard Greenfield, analyst with Pali Capital, he believes that Wally World is "increasing its exposure to consumer electronics, video games and Blu-ray, and reducing floor space devoted to CDs and standard DVDs." Furthermore, it's bruited that John Fleming, chief marketing officer with Walmart, insinuated that "electronics would be getting space expansion in stores due to the decline in physical packaged media." We'll be keeping an eye out to see if we spot any shifts in our local Walmart stores -- won't you do the same?

[Image courtesy of TeamSugar]

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Walmart downsizing shelf space for music CDs, giving more to Blu-ray originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Nov 2008 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-rayblu-ray discBlu-rayDiscbluraycddvdfloor spaceFloorSpacehdmoviesother formatsotherformatsretailshelf spaceShelfSpacewal-martwalmartMon, 03 Nov 2008 23:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Industry professionals chime in with preferred demo material]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/22/industry-professionals-chime-in-with-preferred-demo-material/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/22/industry-professionals-chime-in-with-preferred-demo-material/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/22/industry-professionals-chime-in-with-preferred-demo-material/#comments
Okay, so there are a few titles out there on Blu-ray, DVD and / or CD that simply shine. Those are undoubtedly the ones you bring out when looking to wow onlookers who are checking out your setup for the first time. But wouldn't you like to know which titles industry professionals use to seal deals and land clients? Thanks to a feature over at CE Pro, now you can. Bigwigs from SpeakerCraft, Richard Gray's Power Company and the Imaging Science Foundation were questioned about their favorite source material, and just to name a few, Cars, Casino Royale, The Fifth Element (the remastered version, obviously), Vertical Limit and Contact (DVD) made the cut. Hit up the read link for the full list.

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Industry professionals chime in with preferred demo material originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu rayblu-raybluraycalibrationcddemodemonstrationdvdhdindustryother formatsotherformatsTue, 22 Jul 2008 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Blu-ray audio discs take off, or flounder aimlessly à la DVD-A / SACD?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/08/will-blu-ray-audio-discs-take-off-or-flounder-aimlessly-a-la-dv/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/08/will-blu-ray-audio-discs-take-off-or-flounder-aimlessly-a-la-dv/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/08/will-blu-ray-audio-discs-take-off-or-flounder-aimlessly-a-la-dv/#comments
For those burned by either DVD-Audio, SACD or HD DVD (or, heaven forbid, any combination of the three), you're probably taking a rather defensive approach to Blu-ray audio. Now that said format is the sole king of high-definition media (in the physical realm, anyway), it's just a matter of time before firms start pushing out full-fledged audio discs while trumpeting the incredulous sound quality. After all, with 50GB of space, you can fit an awful lot of high-resolution audio on there. We've already seen the first BD record released and we already know that Neil Young's entire archive will soon be loosed on the format, but are the puzzle pieces aligned for Blu-ray audio to take off? From our standpoint, we're still hesitant to say yes. With CD players still dominating dashboards and BD drives still a long ways from being commonplace in computers, BD audio is apt to remain a niche good for years to come. Even still, do you think it has what it takes to overcome?

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Will Blu-ray audio discs take off, or flounder aimlessly à la DVD-A / SACD? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioblu rayblu-rayblu-ray audioBlu-rayAudiobluraycddolby truehdDolbyTruehddts-hddts-hd madts-hd master audiodts-hdmaDts-hdMasterAudiodtshddvd-advd-audiohdlpcmmusicsacdTue, 08 Jul 2008 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Maxell to no longer manufacture discs, blow customers away]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/04/maxell-to-no-longer-manufacture-discs-blow-customers-away/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/04/maxell-to-no-longer-manufacture-discs-blow-customers-away/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/04/maxell-to-no-longer-manufacture-discs-blow-customers-away/#comments
 Though the Maxell brand name will live on, the company announced it is ending production of CD, DVD, Blu-ray and HD DVD discs at the end of the month. It plans to outsource to other manufacturers (like Mitsubishi perhaps?) and though the name on the packaging will be the same, we just don't see how anyone else can provide the rather unique experience of Maxell tape discs.

[Via Impress]

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Maxell to no longer manufacture discs, blow customers away originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Mar 2008 07:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raycddiscdvdhd dvdHdDvdman in chairManInChairmaxellmaxell tapeMaxellTapeTue, 04 Mar 2008 07:37:00 EST<![CDATA[SACD and DVD-A don't deliver "perfect-er sound forever"]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/21/sacd-and-dvd-a-dont-deliver-perfect-er-sound-forever/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/21/sacd-and-dvd-a-dont-deliver-perfect-er-sound-forever/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/21/sacd-and-dvd-a-dont-deliver-perfect-er-sound-forever/#commentsSACD and DVD-A don't deliver
The Red Book audio format used by CDs isn't improved upon by either SACD or DVD-A formats, it turns out. Extensive double-blind listening tests conducted by E. Brad Meyer and David R. Moran have shown that the old 16-bit, 44.1-kHz standard does not degrade the sound quality of either of the newer formats. The study, which took over a year to conduct, showed that the stereo analog output from a high-end SACD/DVD-A player showed no audible change when subjected to additional processing down to Red Book format. Now before you have a van Gogh-style freakout and cut off your audiophile-approved golden ears, that isn't to say that the DVD-A and SACD discs didn't sound better than the same title on CD. Give credit to the higher production values given to the SACD and DVD-A releases, though, not the formats themselves.

[Via AudioJunkies]

[Image courtesy PerfectSoundForever]

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SACD and DVD-A don't deliver "perfect-er sound forever" originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Jan 2008 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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What's so interesting about another vertically oriented CD player? Well, besides the fact that Marantz's CR101 looks like a programmable thermostat, it also features a pair of remote controls: a mini, 8-button remote along side the giant slab of input-clutter we've all grown woefully accustomed to. Bravo Marantz, bravo. Otherwise we're looking at a 2.1ch (10W sub and 2x 5W speakers) with AM/FM tuner for ¥38,000 or $331 when these hit Japan later in the month.

[Via Impress]

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Marantz wises-up, offers two remotes with CR101 CD player originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 03:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pioneer hasn't forgotten the audiophiles out there, and their new X-Z9 is for those who still listen to stereo music. The X-Z9 combines a SACD/CD deck and integrated digital amplifier (50W to each channel) in one chassis. All you have to do is connect the included speakers and you've got an audio listening station. In case you prefer music of the ripped variety, there are additional inputs available: Sirius/XM; interoperation with a PC via Home Media Gallery; iPod integration and USB drives. Supported digital formats include WMA, MPEG4-AAC, MP3 and FLAC. Available in October for $1799.

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Pioneer intros Elite X-Z9 audio system originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 00:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AACCDFLAChdiPodMP3other hardwareotherhardwarePioneerSACDSiriusWMAXMWed, 12 Sep 2007 00:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Music industry has another death-spasm, coughs up "ringles"]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/10/music-industry-has-another-death-spasm-coughs-up-ringles/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/10/music-industry-has-another-death-spasm-coughs-up-ringles/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/10/music-industry-has-another-death-spasm-coughs-up-ringles/#comments
It seems like every couple months one of the major labels announces yet another harebrained scheme to entice consumers to purchase CDs, regardless of what people actually prefer, and right on schedule, Sony BMG and Universal have announced their latest three-martini-and-a-cocktail-napkin plan: the "ringle," a $6 CD single featuring a remix and ringtone. There's really not much more to say -- trying to revive the CD single by adding in something that consumers are used to getting over-the-air seems like it speaks for itself -- but it's certainly interesting to see the labels desperately try and nab as much of the ringtone market as they can, even as their partners try and move forward. We'll see you at the funeral, boys.

[Image courtesy of Boy Genuis Report]

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Music industry has another death-spasm, coughs up "ringles" originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It seems like very couple months one of the major labels announce yet another harebrained scheme to entice consumers to purchase CDs, regardless of what people actually prefer, and right on schedule, Sony BMG and Universal have announced their latest three-martini-and-a-cocktail-napkin plan: the "ringle," a $6 CD single featuring a remix and ringtone. There's really not much more to say -- trying to revive the CD single by adding in something that consumers are used to getting over-the-air seems like it speaks for itself -- but it's certainly interesting to see the labels desperately try and nab as much of the ringtone market as they can, even as their partners try and move forward. We'll see you at the funeral, boys.

[Image courtesy of Boy Genuis Report]

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Music industry has another death-spasm, coughs up "ringles" originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cdcd singlesCdSinglesmobileringlesringtonessony bmgSonyBmguniversalMon, 10 Sep 2007 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Amadana's CD/DVD shelf system take'n the 70's to the MAX!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/27/amadanas-dvd-shelf-system-taken-the-70s-to-the-max/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/27/amadanas-dvd-shelf-system-taken-the-70s-to-the-max/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/27/amadanas-dvd-shelf-system-taken-the-70s-to-the-max/#comments

Just in case you're looking to throw your office back to the days of Smokey and the Bandit, Amadana has the shelf system for you. The DDA-134 sports a 'classic' walnut look with speaker grills featuring a dark brown grill combining for a system wouldn't look out of place in the Forman's living room set. This isn't just a mediocre retro shelf system though as it's equipped with a progressive scan DVD player along with the accompanying component out - no HDMI though. There are a couple of digital inputs thrown in the mix plus the system can power a center channel, surrounds, and a power'd sub. Unfortunately the skinney on the deal is that all this far out retro comes at a price: ¥168,000 ($1,448 USD).

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Amadana's CD/DVD shelf system take'n the 70's to the MAX! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Aug 2007 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CDDVDhdother hardwareotherhardwareretroMon, 27 Aug 2007 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy 25th Birthday, compact disc!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/16/happy-25th-birthday-compact-disc/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/16/happy-25th-birthday-compact-disc/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/16/happy-25th-birthday-compact-disc/#comments
Has it really been a quarter-century since the first compact disc was pressed, finally freeing us from the infernal routine of rewinding our mix tapes? Well sure enough, Philips was kind enough to inform us that its very first CD rolled off the production lines on August 17th, 1982, which history will forever remember -- perhaps unfortunately -- as a copy of ABBA's The Visitors. Nonetheless, this first widely-produced optical disc format would end up changing our lives forever, ushering in the era of lossless copies, easy music sharing, and an unwanted little friend we've come to know as DRM. Now with some 200 billion discs having been sold worldwide -- and probably twice as many distributed gratis by AOL in its dial-up heyday -- it would seem that the original shiny little platter is unquestionably in its golden years, with more convenient or capacious formats replacing it on almost every front. So Philips, the readers and editors of Engadget are proud to join you in saluting the revolutionary product you helped pioneer -- and also offer our condolences that things, um, haven't worked out quite so well for you in the transition to MP3. If you want to learn some of our (mostly embarrassing) first albums on disc, keep reading after the break...

Continue reading Happy 25th Birthday, compact disc!

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Happy 25th Birthday, compact disc! originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abbaanniversarycdcompact discCompactDiscphilipsportable audioportableaudioThu, 16 Aug 2007 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Where's the digital jewel case?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/10/wheres-the-digital-jewel-case/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/10/wheres-the-digital-jewel-case/http://www.engadget.com/2007/04/10/wheres-the-digital-jewel-case/#commentsPhysical media may be on its long way out, but if Cover Flow has taught us anything, it's that having album art is still a crucial part of experiencing records. We definitely missed the big, bold album art of 12-inch vinyl when we made the jump to CD, but living in digital audio has only recently started to get decent in last couple of years, between devices with larger color displays and automatic cover art downloads in Windows Media Player and iTunes. So what's the next generation? Ironic Sans proposes the digital jewel case, a throwback to simpler times when we bought all our music on easily scratched plastic discs that came with colorful paper inserts. The scary thing is we'd totally buy one, provided it did all the things we're still missing, like display liner notes, lyrics, album art, and everything else in the CD insert. It'd also have to serve as a controller for the music, naturally, but we'll take what we can get for now. So, who's going to standardize the album art / insert digital format?

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Where's the digital jewel case? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Apr 2007 22:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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