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Klipsch headquarters walkthrough: behind the scenes and between the ears
Every time trade shows such as CES and CEDIA open their doors, the collective masses are flooded with headphone after headphone, speaker after speaker. After awhile, one driver looks just as round as the next, and frankly, you start to take for granted what all goes into bringing the tunes we all dig to our ears, dens and underutilized kitchens. One of the mainstays in the audio industry opened their doors up to us this past weekend, and it didn't take much arm pulling to get us inside. We've generally found the design and sound qualities associated with Klipsch gear to be top-shelf, and we've struggled in the past to find too many gripes with the headphones and sound systems we've had the opportunity to review. Needless to say, we were quite curious to hear about (and see) what all goes into imagining, designing, testing and qualifying the 'buds and speakers that we've enjoyed for so many years, and if you share that same level of curiosity, join us after the break for the full walkthrough (and a few heretofore unreleased secrets, to boot).
Samsung delivering botched firmware updates to HT-BD1250 owners, twice
Ever since the tail end of September, owners of the Samsung HT-BD1250 Blu-ray player + HTIB combo have apparently been afflicted by at least two firmware updates that promised new features but instead left many owners staring at only a display flashing "Load" and otherwise unresponsive hardware. If you've already picked up one of these, living without Blockbuster, YouTube and PC Media Streaming access is advisable, as the 2.07 and 2.12 updates appear to be the source of the problems, leaving owners waiting up to several weeks in some cases for repaired hardware to come back their way. Worse yet, according to come posters in the CNET Forums thread, customer service has been slow to pick up the tab for shipping, as if two straight problematic updates weren't bad enough. Ultimately, you may want to look past this one until things are straightened out, or at least for a unit with more (read: any) HDMI inputs. [Thanks, Jarrett]
LG's 5.1 HB954SP Blu-ray HTIB system makes room for your iPod or iPhone
If you've somehow managed to hold out from joining into the HTIB revolution, the time for caving is upon you. LG has just tapped Sir Mark Levinson to engineer the acoustics behind its latest bundle, the HB954SP. Packing a 5.1-channel sound system that includes 1,000 total watts of power, a quintet of oval drivers and a ported subwoofer, the system gets direction from a BD-Live-enabled Blu-ray player that's actually a fair bit more stylish than the tried-and-true black rectangle. You'll also find a pair of HDMI inputs, an iDock function for charging and controlling your iPod / iPhone right from the BD deck, 1080p upscaling of traditional DVDs, touch sensitive controls, a USB port for loading up external media and an optical audio input. There's nary a mention of price, but it should splash down this November for a hefty premium.
Yamaha combines receivers with subwoofers and soundbars for trio of HTIB offerings
Receivers keep growing more channels, but few people have developed an affinity for running more speakers and their tethers 'round the living room. Yamaha's doing its part with a series of products that integrate things together -- soundbars, HTIBs, and the like. On the lower end are the YHT-S350 and YHT-S400, pictured after the break. Both offer a receiver with an integrated subwoofer, through which your various devices can be connected and the output end of their HDMI cables tickled with bass. The two differ only in how they get their highs out, with the S350 including a pair of squat stereo speakers and the S400 offering a three-channel "air surround xtreme" soundbar. On the higher end is the updated YSP-4100, above, a rather tall but only 9cm deep soundbar with the receiver integrated that can be mounted on the wall right beneath your giant HDTV and then paired with a selection of wireless transmitters for iPods and the like. It includes a whopping 40 4cm speakers arrayed within, with a further two 11cm woofers, delivering what Yamaha calls 2.5.1 channel sound -- though it looks as if it can power two additional speakers at the sides if you want something a little closer to 7.1. The YHT-S350 and -S400 are due to hit Japan in time for a Halloween marathon, while the YSP-4100 should release in time for the holiday specials on TV. No prices just yet. [Via AV Watch] Read - YHT-S350 and YHT-S400 Read - YSP-4100
JVC's TH-BA1 and TH-SB100 soundbar systems fill out 4.1-channels
Back in January, JVC slated its TH-SB100 soundbar + subwoofer + Blu-ray player system as "3.1-channel," which kind of made sense since the soundbar housed LCR drivers. There's been something funny in the punch since then, because the TH-SB100 has morphed into something with 4.1-channel status. It's still a soundbar system, but JVC is using magic called "front surround" to get the outermost drivers to handle the left/right channels and the inside two drivers to handle the center + surround audio. It sounds crazy to us, but we'll try to keep an open mind because otherwise things look pretty good -- 220-Watts total, wireless subwoofer, and Dolby Digital, Pro Logic II and DTS processing in the soundbar. If all you've already got a Blu-ray player, opt for the $400 TH-BA1 (soundbar + sub only), otherwise get onboard with Blu-ray and grab the $700 TH-SB100 (complete with Blu-ray deck).
Pioneer plots a Kuro-less future in the home theater market
If you were afraid that the post-Kuro Pioneer would retreat to car audio, fear not, because the company has plans to soldier on in the HT space with a marketing message that emphasizes both its A/V specialty roots and "balanced" home-A/V product lineup. As much as we love those Kuro plasmas, there's no denying that the prices didn't exactly jive well with the company's efforts to get consumers to recognize the value proposition in its other products. We'll admit that everyday consumers (read: not Engadget HD readers) looking to assemble a one-brand system could have been scared off of the Pioneer name by the Kuro prices, but we wish Pioneer would have kept its plasmas around as an "aspirational" product and allowed shoppers to cross-shop displays by building in deep, off-brand HDMI-CEC support into its other electronics. Wiping our fanboy tears aside, we have to give Pioneer credit -- its current lineup of electronics (AVRs especially) stack up competitively on the value-o-meter; which is good, because with companies like Denon, Onkyo and Yamaha around, it's in for a tough fight.
Sony CMT-DH50R mini-HTIB coming to small screens, big offices in Korea
We never thought we'd have to use the "mini" prefix for a HTIB system, but Sony Korea's CMT-DH50R introduction has forced our hand. The CMT-DH50R takes the familiar mini-system motif popularized in executive offices and adds in HDMI output with 1080p upscaling. Looking through the numerous badges on this 2x80-Watt system, though, you'll notice the Blu-ray logo is nowhere to be found -- sorry, folks, it's DVD only. It's also not clear if there's an HDMI input to go along with the USB device support; but Korean execs may be willing to overlook any shortcomings because the system will play back their ill-gotten and totally legit DiVX files and, more importantly, let them rock the karaoke right from their desks. We'd be surprised if this system made it to US shores in this form, so if you're itching, we suggest you grab up ₩428,000 and grab a flight. Read - CMT-DH50R release Read - CMT-DH50R specs
Pioneer outs DCS-FS30, DCS-585, DCS-590 DVD HTIBs
If you're into an all-Pioneer system, we'd suggest jumping into one of its Blu-ray HTIB offerings, but we'll just hope that these new DVD-centric offerings strike a lower price point that allows more people get started right away and attach a Blu-ray player to the HDMI inputs when their budget allows. Coming to the lineup -- at least in the UK -- are the 2.1-channel DCS-FS30 and 5.1-channel DCS-585 and DCS-590 systems. All kits are based (see that?) on a powered sub, but the configurations vary from there. The DCS-FS30 adds two height-adjustable desktop-sized speakers, and the DCS-590 is comprised of four tall speakers and a center channel, but things get interesting with the DCS-585 that comes with six small cube speakers -- two for center, the remaining four to be sprinkled around the room or stacked and put up front. Correct placement is so staid -- it's all about choices, see? More pics after the break.
Onkyo HT-S7200 and HT-S6200 HTIBs -- new features, same value
There's so many features (and components -- they even include an iPod dock) packed into Onkyo's HTIB systems that it takes a little digging to find the spec bumps in the new HT-S7200 and S6200 models. The top-line HT-S7200 received one extra HDMI input (for a total of five), and both new models also added Audyssey Dynamic Volume and Dolby ProLogic IIz to their processing palette. All in all, pretty consistent with the changes sweeping over the TX-SRx07 receiver lineup, and the $899 and $699 prices for the HT-S7200 and HT-S6200, respectively, are also in line with Onkyo's high value equation for its HTIBs. Finally, there's a $499 SKS-HT870 speaker-only package with the "tallboy" anchored speakers from the HT-S7200 system available for those who want to upgrade their HTIB without starting all over.
Samsung has a new Blu-ray HTIB with the HT-BD3252
Samsung's latest Blu-ray HTIB features just about anything an all-in-one customer could want; in fact we're not sure how you can even build a 5.1 system with rear wireless speakers and a Blu-ray player for $799. The HT-BD3252 of course supports the latest HD audio codecs like TrueHD and DTS-HD, and a mic for automatic calibration. Not wanting to leave anything out from its stand-alone players, Samsung has also included the same internet services like Pandora, Netflix and Blockbuster via the included WiFi dongle. Oh, and don't forget the very important iPod dock, we mean, who would buy a HTIB in this day and age without one? Not us, that's for sure.
Yamaha YTH-591 HTIB reviewed -- you pay more, you get more
Every time we're asked for speaker and/or receiver suggestions and our victim's eyes glaze over as the discussion stretches on, we're reminded of why HTIB (home theater in a box) systems are so successful. As crazy as it seems to us, most people just want to get going with the HT, not invest in a lifestyle. Based on the review at the aptly named HomeTheaterInABoxReview, the Yamaha YHT-591 sounds like a system we could recommend the next time we're asked. At $649, it's on the expensive side of the HTIB spectrum, but you get what looks like a slightly detuned RX-V463 (105-Watt, 5.1-channels), 5 bookshelf/desktop-sized speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer. Other than the spring clips on the receiver, it looks like the receiver will survive a few round of speaker upgrades, with YPAO room EQ, HDMI connectivity and good codec support. Hit the link for the full details.[Thanks, Brian!]
Yamaha debuts neoHD media controllers, and a HTIB bundle too
Considering the continually falling prices of receivers and discrete speakers, Yamaha's new neoHD components that emphasize integration and ease of use rather than just the "boxes per dollar" HTIB metric sounds like a good move. On power-up, the YMC-500 ($600) and YMC-700 ($800) also turn on the TV, guide the user through a tree of activities (starting with "Watch/Listen/Play" options) and power up the correct devices. Both models pack 3 HDMI inputs, a pair of component ins, and one composite (yuck) set. On the audio side, there's decoding all the way up to Dolby TrueHD (no mention of DTS-HD MA in the PR -- perhaps a Zoran chipset lurks within?) and a nice dollop of Yamaha technologies, including Cinema DSP, AIR SURROUND XTREME, YPAO room correction and Adaptive DRC dynamic volume control. If you spring for the YMC-700 model, you also get wireless connectivity to the media lurking around your house on PCs, a license for TwonkyMedia software for streaming to the YMC-700, and Rhapsody access. Still not convenient enough for you? Then grab for the $800 YMC-S21 HTIB system (pictured) that combines the YMC-500 with a 2.1-channel speaker setup -- interestingly, the PR doesn't spell out a YMC-700 + 2.1-channel speaker bundle. Full details after the break.
Bang & Olufsen's BeoVision 7 goes Blu
As a brand that pairs high fashion with prices to match, the addition of Blu-ray to Bang & Olufsen's lineup seems like it should have happened a long time ago, but only now is B&O making play dates between its BeoVision 7 LCD and the format. Getting the B&O marketing fluff and buff on the latest iteration of the BeoVision 7-40 are the built-in Profile 2.0 Blu-ray deck, DVB-HD tuner, 40-inch LCD with 120Hz refresh rate, and your choice either the BeoLab 7-2 stereo soundbar (for those who haven't heard good surround sound) or the minimalistic BeoLab 7-4 soundbar with the Acoustic Lens (for those who don't care). If you're flat broke after laying out the $13,500 for this HTIB, no problem -- with its motorized stand, the BeoVision 7-40 is all set for placement right on your floor, so be sure to factor that savings in.
Onkyo outs audio-centric components in Japan
Onkyo just loves to make new product announcements in batches, and the latest press volley is no exception. Planned for release next month in Japan are the 2.1-channel HTX-11X system, CR-D2LTD CD mini-system with matched D-112EXLTD bookshelf speakers, A-5VL Class D integrated amplifier, and C-S5VL thin SACD deck. Even if the model names don't exactly roll off the tongue, the machine translations tell you most of what you need to know. Here's a quick rundown: the HTX-11X matches up the stereo pair of bookshelf speakers with the amplifier buried in the subwoofer cabinet to the tune of 35-Watts to the sub itself and 17-Watts across each of the 5 remaining taps; if you're putting together something for your executive office, the CR-D2LTD mini-system paired up with the D-112EXLTD speakers will handle your CDs and FM radio; and audiophiles looking to roll their own might find something to like in the 80-mm thin C-S5VL SACD deck and 40-Watt A-5VL Class D integrated amplifier. If you're planning on doing some shopping in Akihabara soon, go past the break for pretty pics and hit the links for the full details.Read - HTX-11X HTIB system Read - CR-D2LTD mini-system, D-112EXLTD speakers Read - A-5VL integrated amplifier, C-S5VL SACD player
LG puts its HB954TBW Blu-ray HTIB into Korean streets
Only last month we saw a positive review of LG's HB354BS HTIB, and the company obviously feels it's on to something good with these HTIB systems, because it has now introduced the similar HB954TBW to its homeland Korean market. This system notches up the channel count to 5.1 (as opposed to the 2.1-channel HB354BS), but still hangs on to the Mark Levinson name-drop, Blu-ray heart and retractable iPod dock that to our eyes looks like a sleek accident waiting to happen. Gather up your won, this one lists out at ₩1,299,000 ($1,030).
Philips announces US availability for 2009 home entertainment line (with hands-on!)
Philips may be dodging the North American sector with its flashiest of products, but it's still showing the Yanks in attendance a little love on the home entertainment front. Today in a meeting in NYC, the outfit revealed US pricing and availability for its entire 2009 family, most of which was quietly introduced in January. Starting things off are the 6000 and 7000 Series of HDTVs, which just so happen to pick right up where the previous models left off in 2008. The 6000 Series will arrive in 32-, 42- and 47-inch flavors for $799, $1,399 and $1,699, respectively, while the 7000 Series goes 42-, 47- and 52-inch for $1,499, $1,799 and $2,299, also respectively. While checking these very sets out, we noticed that the factory settings left the colors a bit blown out and overly sharp -- though, this practice is far too common in HDTV companies anyway. Nothing like wowing those Best Buy shoppers at first, only to sear their retinas at home, right? All kidding aside, the panels looked superb, and the A-B comparison mode made tweaking the settings a breeze. Hop on past the break for the rest of the details, and give our gallery a glance for a closer look at the whole lot.
Epson launches next-gen Ensemble HD Home Cinema System
Considering that Epson's highest-end HTIB is nearly two years old now, we'd say an update was definitely in order. Today, the outfit has just taken the wraps off of its next-generation Ensemble HD Home Cinema, which gets updated by way of including the PowerLite Home Cinema 6100 or Home Cinema 6500 UB. As with the prior kit, these two also include a motorized 100-inch screen, integrated surround sound, AV controller with built-in DVD player, universal remote and all virtually components needed for installation. The only thing that's glaringly absent is a Blu-ray player, which -- at this point -- is completely and utterly inexcusable. At any rate, those content with treating themselves to upscaled DVD can fork out $4,999 for the Ensemble HD Home Cinema 720p, $6,499 for the Ensemble HD Home Cinema 6100 and $7,999 for the Ensemble HD Home Cinema 6500 UB.
Samsung AS730 HTIB review
In a time when most people feel that the sound spilling out of the white earbuds that came bundled with their PMP is "really good," getting people to pry open their pocketbooks for sound quality is a tough battle. That doesn't mean it's not worthwhile -- ask anyone who has experienced a good HT demo and they'll tell you that audio is a significant part of the grin-inducing experience. Where price sensitivity intersects with a desire to experience surround sound, HTIB (home theater in a box) systems have found a nice market opportunity. For its part, Samsung's $500 AS730 HTIB promises a lot -- a compliment of five speakers plus a powered sub combined with a receiver that can accommodate your existing system and leave you with some room to grow with both inputs (three HDMI, two component video and an iPod dock) and outputs (an extra pair of speaker outputs for 7.1-channel rear-surrounds). Read on to find out how the Samsung AS730 managed the features/price balancing act.
LG's HB354BS Blu-ray HTIB gets a thumbs-up review
Although pricing info for LG's HB354BS Blu-ray HTIB wasn't available by the time it hit the internet, TrustedReview's impressions of the all-in-one sound pretty favorable. Whether it's because LG chose to focus on quality over quantity by delivering "only" a 2.1-channel system or Mark Levinson sprinkled some audiophile-approved fairy dust over the pieces, it all came together pretty nicely. Once things were set up, the slick UI and retractable iPod dock went a long way towards minimizing the light and hollow feel of the individual parts, and sound quality that didn't immediately fall apart with increasing volume didn't hurt either. As expected, the Blu-ray visuals -- rivaling LG's standalone BD370 -- didn't disappoint, which sealed the deal for this system. Even for surround sound, we'd take a solid 2.1-channel system over a lackluster 7.1-channel one, and TrustedReviews did too, giving it the HB354BS a recommendation -- assuming it hits the streets at a reasonable price.
Hands-on with Samsung's AS730 HTIB
When it rains, it pours, and no sooner did we unpack the Paradigm SUB 25 than the new Samsung AS730 HTIB showed up at our doorstep. The AS730 came in its own fairly big box chock full of good stuff -- for 500 clams, you get a 5.1-channel speaker set (four identical front and surround channels, a center and a powered subwoofer), a receiver, remote, iPod dock, calibration mic and even cables to hook everything up. As you'd expect from a HTIB system, all the cables are color-coded to help users get things set up quickly -- unfortunately that color coding couldn't help us navigate the tightly-spaced speaker connections. Sure enough, it's pretty crowded around the back of the receiver, with enough connections to wire up prospective buyers' systems via HDMI, component and composite. Best of all, there's some room for expansion as well, with 7.1-channel analog inputs and 7.1-channel speaker taps. We'll put this package in the review queue and report back when we've got a story to tell; until then, feel free to check the pics of the not-so photo-friendly glossy black kit after the break.
