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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).
Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Mini impressions
Bowers & Wilkins isn't a name that's generally associated with "mere mortals." Sure, you'll find B&W gear within palatial mansions and the drool-worthy motorcars, but by and large, these guys stick to the high-end and never bother coming down to the level of the layperson. Thanks to Apple, it seems that even this company couldn't resist the temptation of pumping out its own iPod sound system, with the Zeppelin Mini being the second that it has sold. At $399.99 (MSRP), this one is positioned alongside more pricey options like Bose's SoundDock, JBL's On Stage 400P, Altec Lansing's Mix iMT800, iHome's iP1 and Boston Acoustics' i-DS3. As is typical with B&W gear, the Zeppelin Mini is nothing short of beautiful, but do the acoustics really match the design? Read on for a few of our impressions. %Gallery-80388%
Sonos ZonePlayer S5 all-in-one speaker system now available
We managed to get a early hands-on look at Sonos' new S5 all-in-one speaker system last month, and if that got you intrigued you'll no doubt be pleased to know that the rig is now available in the US for the slightly premium price of $399. That will get you all the usual wireless connectivity you'd expect from a Sonos ZonePlayer (minus the need to purchase additional speakers), plus support for the Sonos Controller iPhone app (but no actual iPhone / iPod dock), and of course some "room-filling" sound, which we found did actually live up to its promise. Still confused about the whole thing? Head on past the break for a video.
JVC SP-FT is a drool-inducing, 31mm thin home theater speaker system
We know, life's tough. You want to buy the latest ultraslim HDTV, but find that your home theater speakers will look monstrously bulky sitting alongside it. JVC wouldn't want to cause you such headaches, which is why it's trotted out the above pair of 31mm thin speaker satelittes -- known as the SP-FT1 in black and SP-FT2 in their white garb -- and the AX-FT amplifier squeezed in between them. While you should probably not expect Telos 5000-like output, the amp will deliver 80W of total output over 4 independent channels, and has support for Dolby Digital, DTS and AAC formats. Prices are expected to be around ¥24,000 ($267) for the amp and ¥20,000 ($223) for the speakers when their black iterations hit Japan later this month, with the willowy white option showing up in November. %Gallery-75557% [Via Akihabara News]
Boston Acoustics' SoundWare XS 5.1 speaker system -- think "extra small," not "excess"
With each of the five satellite speakers measuring less than 4-inches (on a side) each and missing any obvious Goldmund badging, we're going to go out on a limb and guess that the "XS" in Boston Acoustics' SoundWare XS 5.1-channel speaker system stands for "extra small" rather than "excess." We have to take issue with calling the 2.5-inch driver in each satellite a "woofer," and just hope that Boston Acoustics isn't trying to get into a race for the "smallest speakers available that don't fit in your ears" title. Boston Acoustics mercifully adds an 8-inch, 100-Watt subwoofer module to restore any tones below a few hundred Hertz for the psychologically safe price of $499, your choice of black or white.
Aperion Audio rolls its new Bravus 8A Subwoofer into a sub-$1000 speaker system
Aperion Audio just took the wraps off its new budget-priced Bravus 8A subwoofer, a $319 model featuring a ported 8-inch aluminum cone backed by a 100-Watt amplifier and a adjustable (40 - 160Hz) crossover that promises to deliver quality bass for your bucks. That's a tough price point for standalone subs, but luckily Aperion has another way to get the new model into living rooms -- incorporating it into the Intimus 4B Harmony SA 5.1-channel speaker system. Take one Bravus 8A (in either cherry or gloss black), mix in four Intimus 4B satellite speakers and top it all off with a 4C center channel, put it on the menu for $999 and let people take a taste test in their own home. Sounds good to us, so let us know if you take the plunge. Full press release after the break.
Genius bringing WiFi boombox, night vision IP camera concepts to CES 2009
You may be inclined to just associate Genius with corporate-level mice, ho hum speakers and the occasional pen tablet, but the outfit is looking to expand its horizons at CES next month. It'll be bringing along a pair of concepts that are evidently leaning towards release in the mysterious future, the first of which is a 2.4 GHz Wireless Stereo Speaker System. The three-piece package presumably contains two satellites and a subwoofer, with the knobs and ports maintaining a low profile. The wireless range reaches up to 100-feet and the inbuilt 3.5-millimeter auxiliary jack ensures that practically any source will work. Moving on, we've got the IP Cam 350TR, which is constructed with "the most advanced night vision technology to secure any home or office efficiently." The integrated light sensor automatically fires up six infrared LEDs when in a dark / dim environment, and there's also a microphone tucked away to capture live audio. Pricing for both is listed as TBA, which isn't shocking given the "concept" status; full release is after the jump.
iLuv reveals iSP200 2.1-channel portable soundbar
No need for a gargantuan home theater-styled soundbar? Then have a gander at iLuv's latest, the iSP200. Hailed as a 2.1-channel speaker system for "laptops and desktops," we view this more as just an easy-to-tote sound system that ought to outperform most of those weak iPod docks. The system packs 32-watts of power, SRS-XT "surround technology," master / bass / treble audio controls, an inbuilt 3-port USB 2.0 hub and 3.5-millimeter auxiliary input. You'll even notice that the speakers are detachable from the main unit, though the biggest knock is the omission of a rechargeable battery for true mobility. Still, not too shabby for a penny under a Benjamin; full release is after the break.
Logic 3's Valve80 brings that tubular sound to the iPod
Not that we haven't seen a tube-based iPod sound system before, but it's been awhile. And besides, this one's for the UK market first and foremost, so chew on that, rest of the world. Logic 3's Valve80 includes a pair of 2-way bookshelf speakers coated in a black lacquer finish along with a swank tube amplifier that pushes out 40-watts per channel. You'll also find an iPod dock, composite / S-Video outputs and a pair of audio ins and outs. Yeah, £299.99 ($448) is pretty steep, but we're sure there's some cheap credit left somewhere on that Diners Club International card.[Via T3]
Paradigm "Phantom" Cinema Gaming speaker system review
Paradigm has a long history of offering speakers that provide a big slice of audiophile-approved sound at reasonable prices. Its speakers aren't the cheapest and they can't be found at every big-box retailer, but chances are that if you seek out a Paradigm dealer, you'll be rewarded with some great-sounding gear at a fair price. Follow us past the break to see how much of the high-end Paradigm delivers with its latest entry-level offering, the Cinema Gaming speaker system.
Paradigm Cinema Gaming speaker systems target double-duty living rooms
Paradigm strikes an uncanny balance with its speakers, covering a wide gamut of price points while maintaining audiophile cred at each one. Recognizing that gaming consoles play an increasing role in HT setups, the company is introducing pre-packaged speaker bundles with its Cinema Gaming systems. Let's see -- a high-end badge, value-conscious pricing and single-SKU convenience? Sounds good to us. First up is the Micro system ($894), consisting of a pair of Paradigm Micro bookshelf speakers and Cinema ADP surrounds, a Cinema 110C center channel and a PDR8 sub. If you need to fill a little more volume with, er, volume, there's the Phantom system ($1474) with a pair of Phantom floorstanding speakers and Cinema ADP surrounds, a Cinema 220C center channel and a PDR10 sub. These 5.1-channel systems are also available in 2.1-channel flavors -- just leave out the surrounds and center channel -- bringing the prices down to $487 and $977 for the Micro and Phantom setups, respectively. Available now from authorized Paradigm dealers, so hop to it! Full press release after the break.
Intempo unveils iPod-lovin' RDi-W / Fusion speaker systems
What can we say? Intempo has launched a new pair of iPod-compatible speaker systems, and unless you're somehow just entering the market for one in the latter half of 2008, chances are you're already yawning. Nevertheless, the RDi-W (pictured) does distinguish itself somewhat by including support for DAB and wireless internet radio, and there's a 30-watt internal amplifier to kick out the jams. The much drabber Fusion keeps things small and simple by offering up just 25-watts of power and DAB / FM tuners. Expect the couple to sashay into e-tailers next month for £169.99 ($316) / £99 ($184).Read - RDi-WRead - Fusion
Radiopaq Rp5 does DAB, FM and internet radio
Look out, Pure Digital -- you've got a new rival in town. Radiopaq, best known for bringing thousands of internet radio stations and podcasts to listeners via the web, has decided to hop into the hardware game. The Rp5 tabletop radio features a five-way speaker system, digital / analog processors, a headphone jack, remote control and a rather stylish design. There's also an integrated WiFi module for tuning into the outfit's website and even sucking down news, weather and traffic information. Of course, the more traditional FM / DAB tuners are there as well, making this one quite the multifaceted box. Word on the British streets has this one pegged for a September launch at £250 ($468).[Via Pocket-lint]
Meridian $3K F80 home entertainment system gets reviewed
Before you unload $2,995 on anything, you're likely going to want the opinion of someone who has had a chance to try things out beforehand, no? Working under that assumption, we present to you a review of Meridian's stratospherically priced F80. Proudly called "the most expensive tabletop music system in the history of the civilized world," this unit was seen as a "model for all tabletop systems," with the reviewer even begging everyone else to look at this before starting up design on yet another ho hum alternative. The critic also noted that this unit pulled off what he thought was impossible: "identifiable left- and right-channel sound from a system that measures only 16-inches wide." As expected, the F80 was indeed the "best" he had ever heard in this category, but the omission of an iPod dock was a sore spot. For those with more disposable income than they know what to do with, this one seems a surefire winner; for everyone else, it's not worth going into debt over.
Genius' SP-T1200 speaker system loves to be touched
Okay, so you could argue that most any speaker system would appreciate some TLC, but Genius' latest really adores it. The SP-T1200 2.0 Touch Speaker System comes with a black-onyx finish and enables owners to rely on a touch screen to control function, volume, bass or treble. When touched, the panel lights up to visually show that contact has been made, and while these promise 30-watts of skull-rattling sound, we wouldn't count on audiophile type results. Grab 'em now if you wish for $99.
Meridian's Ferrari-branded F80 home entertainment system priced at $2,995
We fully expected that Ferrari logo and lacquered paint job to add a stuff premium to Meridian's F80, but this is undeniably insane. The "transportable home entertainment system," which has been hovering about since last March, is at long last ready to be purchased. Finding prospective buyers, however, will likely be challenging. The unit is now available in silver, yellow, white, black and the obligatory red, and each one will set you back a dumbfounding $2,995. We're thinking the unit itself would go for around three bills sans branding, but apparently Italian ponies aren't cheap.
Gear4 Duo iPod speaker system touts removable front panel
Gear4 has been known to unleash a few unorthodox speaker systems, but the forthcoming Duo is particularly impressive -- in finding a way to somehow differentiate itself in the expansive pool of alternatives, that is. At first glance, it doesn't appear to differ much from every other one out there, but give that front panel a tug, and off comes a portable speaker system with its own rechargeable batteries, auxiliary port and power supply. When you arrive back, just reattach the magnetically-held panel and listen as the bass kicks in without missing a beat. Apparently the unit is set to go on sale on June 1st for £150 ($290), though we haven't heard if it'll ever arrive on US soil.
Razer's THX-certified 2.1 Mako speaker system reviewed
Remember that 2.1-channel speaker system you saw from Razer, what, two years ago? No, wait -- that was this year. All kidding aside, the Mako is finally getting ready to ship to US customers (and parts of Europe in the future), but Engadget HD managed to round up a set before it even has a chance to grace store shelves. Ready to see if this three piece is fit for you? Grab your specs and hit the read link below.
LG unveils HT972TR HTIB, favors Chocolate
If you thought LG had milked the Chocolate for all it was worth, you've got another thing comin'. That thing would be the HT972TR HTIB, which includes five satellite speakers, a 225-watt subwoofer, 1,000 total watts of amplification and a DVD player that handles 1080p upscaling as well as DivX. Moreover, the system boasts HDMI, DTS support, an AM / FM tuner and a USB port for loading up portable media. Not a lot of details beyond that just yet, but do yourself a favor and check out two more delicious shots waiting after the jump. [Via Electronista, images courtesy of Le Journal du Geek]
GEAR4's HouseParty Blu system handles iPods and A2DP streaming
There's iPod sound systems, and then there's Bluetooth streaming music stations, but GEAR4 is looking to meld both worlds together with its new HouseParty Blu. The multifaceted speaker station allows dock-connecting iPods to flank the top and recharge its battery while cranking out the jams, and moreover, it doesn't shun the elegant A2DP audio streaming capabilities of your BT-enabled music phone in the process. As with most portable sound systems, this one also includes a 3.5-millimeter auxiliary input for every other music source in the world, and specs wise, you'll find a pair of stereo drivers, 30-watts of amplification, touch-sensitive backlit buttons, and a wireless remote. So if you've been keeping an eye for a noise maker that would natively play nice with your Pod and mobile, you can snap up GEAR4's latest for a reasonable £79.99 ($159) right now.
