htib
Latest
Vizio works on making its 4K TVs even better in 2019
While many other manufacturers chase new technology with 8K and HDMI 2.1, Vizio is enhancing its 4K TV lineup, starting from the lower-priced V series all the way up to its top-of-the-line P-Series Quantum X. The V series steps in where Vizio's E line of TVs used to reside, with smart TV features, Dolby Vision HDR and up to 16 zones of local dimming, with models ranging from 40- to 75-inches.
Optoma's P1 laser projector brings a 4K home theater anywhere
Optoma's latest projector joins competition like Hisense and LG by including everything you need for a home theater in one package. The P1 Smart 4K UHD Laser Cinema is not just a laser projector, as it combines the Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice control we've seen in previous Optoma units with a NuForce Dolby Digital 2.0 sound bar that has built-in woofers.
Sony prices its 2013 home and shelf audio lineups, clarifies availability dates
Given Sony's heritage, it's no surprise that the company loves its audio -- but we can imagine that some might be overwhelmed when the company has priced and dated the cores of its 2013 home and shelf audio lineups in one sitting. Don't worry, we'll break it all down. On the home audio side, both the BDV-N7100W and BDV-7100W home-theaters-in-a-box (N8100W shown above) are already shipping at respective $599 and $699 prices with 1,000W 5.1-channel output, internet-linked Blu-ray players and both Bluetooth as well as OneTouch NFC pairing. TV watchers who can wait until June will also see the STR-DN1040, a $599 7.2-channel receiver with 4K upscaling, Bluetooth, WiFi and 165W per channel; the $449 STR-DN840 receiver, which scales back to 4K passthrough and 150W per channel; and the $399 HT-C660 soundbar, which adds NFC pairing to the same wireless mix as the receivers. Shelf audio is simpler, with every new entry arriving May 27th. Both the LBT-GPX55 (below) and LBT-GPX77 mini stereos offer a respective 1,600W and 1,800W of output alongside Bluetooth, NFC, a CD player (!) and dual USB ports at a $499 starting price. Those who don't need their walls rattled quite so thoroughly can spring for the $349 RDH-GTK37iP boombox, which puts out a still-substantial 420W on top of Bluetooth, NFC, an iOS dock and attention-getting strobe lights. That's a lot to process, we know. If you're not satisfied even after that deluge of information, however, Sony's pressers await after the break.
Onkyo debuts new entry level receivers, HTIBs for 2012
For 2012, Onkyo is expanding its lineup with four new entry level receivers and two HTIB all-in-one packages. The receivers all pack the brand new InstaPrevue (PiP preview of each HDMI source with fast switching) and MHL, while the three networked models are the first with access to MP3tunes cloud stored songs, as well as a number of other services including Spotify. The top of the line TX-NR616 ($699, April, pictured above) packs the most power and rocks a THX Select2 Plus stamp of quality and, along with the step down TX-NR515 ($599, March) has Qdeo video processing that scale video up to 4K res and output audio on 7.2 channels. On the HTIBs, the 7.1 HT-S5500 ($649, March) and 5.1 HT-S3500 bring all the usual features wrapped around a new "Wide Range Amplifier Technology" that it claims reduces signal noise while still pumping up the power through discrete output-stage components. The full list of specs, prices and shipping windows are in the press releases after the break, hit the source links for a few more pictures.
Samsung unveils new HTIB systems plus audio docks with Galaxy S and iPhone support
While it's hardly pulling the curtain back on its entire CES 2012 slate of products, Samsung's earliest preview for your AV pleasure is an updated range of HTIB systems and sound bars, as well as two new Audio Docks that support Apple devices as well as its own Galaxy S phones and players. The DA-E750 Audio Dock (pictured above) is the first to include Samsung's "hybrid vacuum tube amplifier technology" which it claims raises the bar for mainstream audio products, by delivering the clear sound output of digital combined with the natural sound of a vacuum tube in its preamp. Both docks will play from and charge both Samsung and Apple hardware, as well as stream music wirelessly via AllShare or AirPlay, although the DA-E670 lacks that high end vacuum tube tech. For your entire home theater needs, the new HT-E6730W 7.1 Blu-ray 3D HTIB features the same vacuum tube tech as the DA-E750, while the HT-E5500W boasts an iPod dock and 3D sound effects.Finally the HW-E550 Surround Sound Bar also produces 3D sound with vertically mounted speakers and comes with its own wirelessly connected subwoofer. One other new feature this year is the "Disc to Digital" integration in the HT-E5500W's Blu-ray player which will give users access to streaming copies of eligible discs just by registering into the player. It sounds like it's powered by Ultraviolet, although we'd expect to hear more about that closer to the show. Check after the break for press releases, and the gallery for a few pics of all this hardware -- if you know anything about Samsung, you know the onslaught has only just begun.
Ask Engadget: what's the best sub-$1,000 HTIB setup?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Dave, who just so happens to be in the midst of a new PC build. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hey all! What is the best 'home theater in a box,' with connectivity for my component-out Wii, HDMI-out media box and optical-out TV? Room for plenty of future additions would be awesome. Wireless would be a plus, and of course, it needs to have at least respectable sound quality. Thanks!" So, HTIB junkies -- what's the box rocking your socks at the moment? Drop your best advice in comments below!
Panasonic extends Avatar Blu-ray 3D promotion by giving away copies with new Blu-ray players
If you're not interested in buying one of Panasonic's 3D televisions and snagging a copy of Avatar on Blu-ray 3D via the company's exclusivity deal, there is now a solution that doesn't involve downloading a rip, heading to eBay or opting for HBO's VOD version. Starting today, Panasonic has officially announced the offer extends to its 2011 3D Blu-ray players and HTIB systems, and invites all those who purchased one as early as March 1 to obtain a copy via the time honored tradition of a mail-in coupon. There's more details in the press release after the break or at the source link, unless you're looking for an in depth discussion of the properties of unobtanium, which would not be found at either of those locations.
Samsung announces availability, pricing for 2011 HDTVs, Blu-ray players and HTIB
It's coming a little late in the game since many of these models have already started shipping, but Samsung has finally seen fit to reveal prices and approximate shipping dates for its 2011 HDTVs (both LCD and plasma), Blu-ray players, and home theater in a box systems. There's no surprises as far as features from what we saw at CES, both plasma and LCD HDTV lines have new slim bezeled models, with new LED lighting tech for the LCDs and "Real Black" panels for the plasmas that have grown an inch in size this year. Meanwhile, the Blu-ray players have predictably gotten slimmer and faster, booting up in just three seconds. 3D and Smart TV features are standard on the majority of the new products this time around, check after the break for more details on what's new and how much they'll cost to start out.
Onkyo adds the HT-9300THX to the top of its HTIB line
We're not the biggest fans of home theaters that come in a single box, but out of all of them we recognize the value and versatility of the Onkyo offerings. The latest addition is at the top of the line adding to the HT-S7300 and HT-S6300 we told you about earlier this month. The HT-S9300THX is 3D ready and features four HDMI 1.4a inputs as well as the latest lossless HD decoders, Audyssey 2EQ room acoustics correction technology, and is the first THX I/S Plus Certified (newly created for HTIBs). The 7.1 system also happens to include a Faroudja DCDi Cinema video processor for upconverting those old standard def sources to 1080p. Certainly not what you think of when you think of a HTIB, but it will start shipping this week for $1099 if it's up your alley.
Onkyo's HT-S7300 and HT-S6300 HTIB bundles are totally ready for 3D, man
Shocker of shockers -- Onkyo has outed a pair of home-theater-in-box bundles, and both of 'em are 3D ready. Crazy, ain't it? The HT-S6300 and HT-S7300 both have 3D-ready HDMI-1.4a inputs, 1080p video upscaling, lossless Dolby and DTS high definition audio, Dolby height processing, Audyssey automatic room equalization and seven total loudspeakers (plus a subwoofer). The primary difference between the two is the pair of 41-inch tall floorstanders that come with the S7300, as both systems ship with a 7 x 130W amplifier and a 290W subbie. As expected, there's also an outboard dock for iPod and iPhone, and the Faroudja DCDi Cinema processor should keep upscaled content looking its very best. The duo is available now for $749 and $899, respectively, and the full presser awaits just past the break should you find yourself interested.
Sony selling 3D bundle deals for a limited time
In a rare move, Sony has deviated from their pricey reputation to offer two special 3D bundle promotions until July 17th -- or while supplies still last -- with the clear intention of enticing wavering adopters to veer whole-hog into 3D. The options boil down to either a 46-inch or 54.6-inch Bravia HX8000 for $270 / $340 off their retail prices, respectively, and as a bonus, buyers will receive a variety of 3D accessories valued at $899 for free. Rolled into that $899 goody basket are two pairs of 3D glasses, a 3D sync transmitter, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and IMAX Deep Sea 3D, as well as four 3D games for the PS3 (two are demos); and finally the BDV-E570 3D home theater in-a-box. Depending on how you define "savings," this deal amounts to around $1,200 greenbacks you won't have to shell out for a complete 3D-ready package. At $2,429 for the 46-inch and $3,059 for the 54.6-inch package though, you'll still be required to dig deep into your wallet to bring either of these promotions couch-side.
Ask Engadget HD: Best HTIB for under $500?
Recently we've gone decidedly high end with our queries, but now we've got a question that returns to the opposite end of the home theater spectrum. Our friend Jason wants to upgrade to surround sound without spending too much cash, so think about passable HTIB (home theater in a box) systems while you read his question: "I'm looking to add a surround sound system to my living room. It's a pretty small room, so I don't need anything too powerful. I've already got an upscaling DVD player, and plan to add a PlayStation 3 later this year so I also don't need one with a DVD/BD player included. I wish I could say money was no object, but this is going to be my Birthday Present from my fiancé and since I'll be purchasing the PS3 soon I need to keep it in the low to mid range. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated." He asked for solutions under $500, so feel free to suggest any HTIB that might fit -- Sony's 3D ready, LG kicks in VUDU and Harman Kardon has refreshed hardware just to mention a few -- or would you try to talk him into a higher end / custom system? The power is in your hands, use it wisely. Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.
LG unveils new Blu-ray 5.1 HTIB combos
LG's updating its HTIB lineup in Korea with these Blu-ray models, the HB965TX and HB965TZ. Other than their thin 32mm speakers, they also feature the entire NetCast suite of features, with YouTube, Picasa and DLNA access over WiFi in a simple all in one setup. 900,000 won ($810) gets you the TX while the TZ is 700,000 ($630), but there's no (easily translated) word on the differences so we'll wait until they show up here and we can buy in greenbacks, or whatever color paper money is these days. %Gallery-91924%
Sony magically adds third dimension to new soundbars, 5.1 sound system
The 3.1 channel HT-CT350 and HT-CT150 soundbars a) don't require special glasses to use and b) look fairly flat to us, but -- along with the 1,000 watt HT-SF470 5.1 surround system -- but the magic is in their HDMI repeaters (three inputs, one output) capable of 3D and standby passthrough just like Sony's latest higher end equipment. The 400 watt HT-CT350 steps it up by shipping with a mounting bracket that affixes it to bottom of select 40-inch (and up) 2010 BRAVIA HDTVs, while the 340 watt HT-CT150 attaches to select 32-inch sets. You'll also find LPCM support via HDMI and BRAVIA Sync compatibility, and if you're drinking the Kool-Aid, you can find the 40-inch CT350 on sale next month for $400, the 32-inch CT150 retailing for around $300 and the 5.1 SF470 hitting shops in June for $550. %Gallery-91405%
Onkyo's first 3D-ready receivers are slowly trickling into retail channels
Whether you're shopping with an eye peeled for that HDMI 1.4a 3D-ready sticker or not, Onkyo's rolled the features out across its entire line of HDMI-equipped receivers for 2010, and the first of those have begun showing up at a few online retailers. So far the TX-SR308, a 5.1-channel receiver and the HT-S3300, a 5.1 HTIB system, are the first to arrive proudly sporting $299 and $379 MSRPs, respectively. Now that spring has officially sprung around these parts, more powerful systems with extra features like front mounted HDMI ports, more speakers, more powerful amplifiers and video scalers including the TX-22HDX 2.1 HTIB (pictured after the break) and TX-SR608 7.1 receiver (above) should start arriving shortly. Check the press release after the break for full details of what is available and what is yet to come, or click the read links if you just have to buy one today -- we won't think any less of you.
Harman Kardon, JBL spring forward with refreshed audio lineups for 2010
Say hello to Harman International's home, media and mobile updates for the spring, bringing its audio expertise to those who aren't quite ready to step up to its higher end line of standalone receivers and the like. Promising to perfect the audio performance of any car audio setup in just 10 minutes, the $799 JBL MS-8 is as interesting as it is specialized. The HKTS 20 and HKTS 30 ($799 / $999, March) are standard 200w 5.1 surround sound setups, and while they promise improvements over their predecessors the Go + Play Micro boombox ($399, March), On Time Micro & 200P clock devices (both $249, April) and On Stage Micro II ($129, April) probably aren't hiding anything too surprising underneath those iPod docks, but we'd suggest perusing the gallery just to be sure. %Gallery-88520%
Samsung puts price tags on its next receivers, soundbars and Blu-ray HTIB systems
There's more than just HDTVs on the way from Samsung this year, it's also picked today to reveal the price and ship dates for its Samsung Apps-equipped Blu-ray HTIB systems (HT-C7530W pictured above and all due in March or April) and HDMI 1.4-equipped 3D passthrough compatible receivers. Even though the cool kids are already on to HDMI 1.4a, that should be good enough to pass through 3D video and handle audio all in one cable so if you're planning a whole home theater revamp before Avatar comes home in 3D (whenever that is) you'll probably want to grab one with the feature. Other than the 7.1 channel HW-C770BS for $549 shipping this month, there's also a $499 HW-C900 model with multi-zone and video upscaling features for $499, though when it will arrive is still TBD.
Denon S-5BD combines a receiver with a Blu-ray deck, costs too much
We're not sure why you'd want to spend $1,799 on a 5.1-channel receiver with an integrated Blu-ray deck when you can mix-and-match plenty of terrific 7.1 receivers and BD players separately for far less, but hey -- it's CES and Denon's introducing the S-5BD in case you do. Sure, it'll do BD-Live and do two-source, two-zone audio distribution with 3 HDMI inputs and an optional iPod control dock, but you know you're doing something wrong when you have to buy a separate amp to use the 7.1-channel analog outputs. Denon, you have made us shake our heads in confusion. Congratulations. In return we offer you this gift of PR after the break.
Sony has some new Blu-ray home theater systems and yes, one does 3D
And you thought that just because you are the home theater in a box type that you wouldn't get to enjoy 3D -- Sony announced a trio of Blu-ray home theater systems that feature wireless speakers and the same internet streaming features BRAVIA Internet Video, DNLA and the iPhone app remote that the stand-alone Blu-ray from Sony do. And the top of the line BDV-HZ970W (pictured above) also supports 3D Blu-ray Discs. The other two new systems, the BDV-E770W and BDV-E570, have most of the same features, but both lack 3D and the BDV-E570 doesn't do DLNA. Check out the full release after the break if you are still left asking for more.
VUDU comes to LG Blu-ray home theater systems
If you are the home theater in a box type, but also want Blu-ray and VUDU movies streamed to your HDTV, then your wait is over. The new BD975 doesn't have a price and we don't know when it'll be available, but what we do know is that when that day comes for you to part with your hard earned cash you'll get a all the great internet features those who prefer to buy stand-alone Blu-ray players have enjoyed for years. You know, like VUDU, YouTube, Pandora, Picasa, AccuWeather, Netflix and CinemaNow -- so yeah, just about everything. The DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD can be played back wirelessly to the speakers and there's even a iPod dock drawer for your iPhone.
