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Pioneer to start building TVs again, but not plasmas
Pioneer has announced that it'll re-enter the TV market as an exclusive brand for Dixons after it completely stopped making them in 2010. Unfortunately for fans of the sublime Kuro plasma displays, the company will only make 1080P LED models in 40-, 46- and 55-inch sizes. They'll get 3D and Smart TV capability along with a wide range of connection options, including HDMI, USB and WiFi. The new sets will be marketed and sold by Dixons in the Nordic countries at launch time in December, with plans to bring them to the UK at a later date. It's perhaps not surprising that Pioneer has no intention of going back to plasma and its low margins -- after all, even Panasonic is bowing out, despite all its fans.
Pioneer's $299 DDJ-SB controller lets you spin records on the cheap (video)
You might have the ambition and desire to be the next Deadmau5, but the price of some DJ controllers aren't exactly wallet-friendly. Thankfully there are plenty of affordable options out there, and one of them has just arrived from Pioneer. Dubbed the DDJ-SB, it claims similar basic features and operability as the DDJ-SX that debuted last year, but at almost half the cost. A 2-channel controller, the DDJ-SB uses the popular Serato DJ Intro software and touts two decks with large jog wheels for easy scratching, a "filter fade" function for smoother transitions, multiple performance pads and a USB interface so you can hook it up easily to your computer. Sure, you'll still need some knowhow to fully make use of it, but at only $299 each, you could invest your savings in a few DJ lessons. Head past the break for a video of the DDJ-SB in action.
Pioneer shows off see-through projection tech for Minority Report-style signage
If Pioneer has its way, basic window-shopping might soon freak you out thanks to its latest see-through projection prototype. The tech features 80 percent transmittance levels -- supposedly much higher than transparent IPS LCD tech -- meaning bright images can be beamed onto the panels without blocking the view of objects behind. Even blacks from the rear-mounted projectors are see-through, and Pioneer envisions the tech being used one day for digital signage and improved vehicle HUDs. We're all for the latter, but the signage demo in the video after the break kind of makes us feel like ads in our head aren't far behind.
The future arrives: Pioneer launches sat-nav with augmented reality
We're sufficiently old that we remember when the windscreen augmented-reality display from Knight Rider 2000 seemed fanciful. Still, 200 years later, and finally, such things are a reality. Pioneer is launching NavGate, a sat-nav with a built-in projector and glass screen that'll provide the illusion you've got a 30-inch display covering the road ahead. Using the unit, drivers can see turn-by-turn directions, the current speed limit, distance, a clock and the estimated time of arrival. The hardware pairs with various smartphone platforms and will even pull data from the CoPilot and iGo primo navigation apps. It'll be available from October and will set Europeans back around £600 ($933). Follow all of our IFA 2013 coverage by heading to our event hub!
Spotify's new Connect feature seems as good an excuse as any to throw a party
This is a sort of hardware / software announcement for Spotify, a hardware partnership with a number of big names in audio like Philips, Pioneer, Bang & Olufsen, Denon, Marantz and Yamaha that allows you to keep the party going on those Spotify playlists. Start playing one on your handset, click play on a compatible speaker system, and it will keep streaming on the speaker without interruption -- even when you take a call or leave the vicinity of your WiFi network. The audio system will actually start streaming music directly from the cloud. That means you can, say, turn on an iPad in another room and let your party guests skip songs -- though, granted, that might not be the greatest idea, depending on who you invite. Specific devices have yet to be named, though compatible systems will be branded with a Spotify Connect logo, so you'll know what you're getting yourself into. Those should be arriving in a late-October / early-November timeframe. Spotify will be holding up its end of the bargain by rolling out a software update for iOS ahead of those launches. Android and other operating systems will be receiving it at a later date.
Pioneer announces DDJ-WeGO2 entry level DJ console with iOS support, onboard sound (video)
Pioneer's original DDJ-WeGO was an effort to secure some of the entry-level DJ-dollars (it does pretty well at the other end already). This time around, there's more of a focus on iOS, with a grip along the back that doubles as a stand for your iPhone or iPad (a lightning cable is included, too). This also means that as well as support for PC and Mac DJ software (Virtual DJ LE is bundled,) you can ride the fader with the fancy new Djay too. The rest of the hardware is pretty familiar ground, with two jog-wheels, effects and a tiny mixing console crammed-in to the small footprint. Learner DJs can improve their skills thanks to visual prompts provided by the LEDs (that flash with the beat etc.,) and USB power means one less cable to worry about. Importantly there's onboard audio, so you get the full DJ / headphone monitoring experience, and a decent audio line out. Prospective spinners will have to wait until October to get one, at a cost of $429. A shade more than the predecessor, but you do get three spiffy full-body colors (red, white and black) to choose from.
Freeview hit with 'major technical issues' on Sony DVD recorders after update (updated)
If Freeview is down on your Sony device in the UK, don't worry: you're not alone. Sony has tweeted that the service isn't working on many of its DVD recorders, like the RDR-HXD870, following a recent firmware update. The company said that "it appears something has change(d) in the way these devices are receiving EPG data from (Freeview operator) Arqiva," adding that some Pioneer DVD players are also affected. It's still trying to get to the bottom of the issue, but pointed to several temporary fixes on its community forums that might tide you over (check the More Coverage link). If that doesn't do it, you'll have to wait for new firmware or get your TV fix elsewhere. Update: Sony's put up a support page with fixes you can try if you're still without Freeview. It involves clearing any stored EPG data by simply rebooting, or by performing a full factory reset. Head to the source for the step-by-step. Update 2: Sony has told us that they don't blame Arqiva for the issue, and are instead chalking it up to "corrupt data originated by broadcasters, and how this data was processed by affected Sony devices." Also, though many devices were stuck in update mode, new firmware was reportedly not responsible for the problem, either. See Sony's full comment below. To clarify, Sony do not blame Arqiva for this, as the issue arose due to corrupt data originated by broadcasters, and how this data was processed by affected Sony devices. Sony has been working with the broadcasters to try to work out why this issue has occurred and how to remedy it. For more information please go to http://www.sony.co.uk/support/en/topics/RDR_HN
Pioneer's SC-79 uses HDBaseT to feed HDMI video throughout the home (hands-on video)
In addition to showcasing its new speaker bar, Pioneer is talking up three audio-video receivers here at CE Week, including one that offers a pretty nifty industry first feature. Though the trio of home theater components are fairly similar, the SC-79 is the most notable, as it's the first such device to feature embedded HDBaseT support. That means it can deliver uncompressed HD video -- even 4K -- at distances of up to 300 feet using an Ethernet cable rather than HDMI. It's not yet a widely adopted spec, but it's especially useful for a multi-room setup, since it requires only one wired connection. That leads us to the other standout feature: the SC-79 can output audio and video to four zones simultaneously, and you can control media across multiple rooms via an Android or iOS app. All that functionality will cost you a pretty penny when the receiver launches in July: the MSRP is $3,000. See it in action right after the break.%Gallery-192395%
Pioneer introduces first sound bar in 15 years: six speakers and a subwoofer for $399 (hands-on)
The last time Pioneer introduced a speaker bar was 1998, but 15 years later the company's giving it another go. The just-announced speaker bar system, the SP-SB23W, will retail for $399 this fall -- reps said the device was designed to pump out high-quality audio without sacrificing a small, attractive design. It's clearly not the most compact rig on the market, but it does offer decent output. It features six independently amplified speakers and an eight-channel active digital crossover network. There's also a wireless subwoofer with a 6.5-inch driver and Dolby Digital decoding on board. On the noisy show floor here at CE Week, it was a little difficult to judge sound quality definitively, but the dialogue recording we heard did sound extremely crisp. For those who already count a Pioneer speaker or two among their home theater setup, the speaker bar should fit in perfectly; it sports a wood -- rather than plastic -- construction, and the company says its cabinet enclosure offer better control of the speakers "because of its resistance to unwanted resonance." Check out our hands-on photo gallery below, and head past the break for the full press info.%Gallery-192388% Zach Honig contributed to this report.
Pioneer announces XDJ-R1 all-in-one digital DJ deck with MIDI, iOS control features (video)
Sure, DJ controllers might be the emerging force in spinning, but CDJs are still largely the club standard. Pioneer has always had thumbs in both of these pies, of course, but the new XDJ-R1 sees the brand uniting them for the first time. The all-in-one unit offers two CD players, USB media playback and MIDI controller functionality. Additionally, you can keep things moving wirelessly via an iOS device thanks to a new dedicated "remotebox" app. Wireless direct means that you won't need to worry too much about flaky connections while you wander into the crowd with your iPhone. You'll still be able to control almost everything directly in the app. Back on the physical (and built-in) two-channel mixer you can spice things up with the usual loop, sync, hot cue and sampling features, plus a choice of color effects. The inclusion of XLR outputs and booth out shows that Pioneer wants to see this in the DJ box, and at $1,099, it should appeal to anyone who'd been eyeing up the component parts. It's available in June, but in the meantime there's a video tour cued up past the break.
Pioneer's AppRadio 3 adds MirrorLink, Siri Eyes Free and more
While Pioneer did announce at CES 2013 that its AppRadio 2 smartphone-powered in-dash unit would support the iPhone 5, the company was hush on any additional updates. Now, however, it has finally unveiled AppRadio 3, which is set to arrive in two models oh-so-descriptively named SPH-DA110 and SPH-DA210. Both retain the same functionality as the AppRadio 2 but add compatibility with MirrorLink enabled devices, thus expanding AppRadio's repertoire of supported products. Other notable features include integration with Siri Eyes Free for iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 owners, Google Voice Search for those with compatible Android phones, Bluetooth audio streaming and an enhanced touchscreen interface that allows easier access to smartphone features like apps, music and making calls. As with its predecessor, the AppRadio 3 has a 7-inch WVGA (800 x 480) capacitive display, a built-in AM/FM tuner and dual pre-amp outputs. The SPH-DA210 model also includes a CD/DVD mechanism if you still have those dinosaur age discs lying around. The SPH-DA110 and SPH-DA210 will be available in July for around $399 and $499 respectively, while smartphone connectivity cables range from $30 to $60. If you're thinking of making an upgrade to your current head unit, have a closer look at the gallery below or check the press release after the break.%Gallery-189192%
Pioneer's Cyber Navi units crowdsource traffic photos, watch for crosswalks (video)
Pioneer's nicer Cyber Navi GPS units already revolve heavily around cameras that dish out augmented reality. That clearly wasn't enough for the company, though, as its new tilt-screen AVIC-VH0009 and fixed-screen AVIC-ZH0009 models wring even more value out of that front sensor. Their new Smart Loop feature automatically snaps photos at traffic hotspots that it shares with fellow drivers, giving them a crowdsourced glimpse of any trouble that lies ahead. Other upgrades don't depend quite so much on collective wisdom, however. The AR Scouter Mode is now smart enough to spot upcoming crosswalks, and the voice search lets drivers freely speak keywords rather than follow a strict syntax. Pioneer isn't divulging pricing ahead of the Cyber Navis' June release, but their Japan-focused location services hint that we won't see either navigator reach the US anytime soon. We can at least live vicariously through the (very detailed) video after the break.
Pioneer Platinum Edition CDJ2000nexus, DJM-900nexus and RMX-1000 eyes-on
What do Magpies and DJs have in common? Well, if Pioneer's latest special edition hardware is anything to go by, it's a love of shiny things. Announced this week, the limited-run of it's flagship CDJ2000nexus, DJM-900nexus and RMX-1000 remix station DJ gear is all about the looks. We managed to get there the minute the show floor opened, and found the lustrous kit getting the final spit and polish before the eager hoards could get their curious hands on it. As anyone who has used Pioneer DJ kit will know, the build quality is generally high, and this is still the case here. The metallic finish really makes them something to look at, and we can see this being the set-up of choice for those who like to show off a little. With that in mind, you might be thinking what we were: what about fingerprints? Well, having got there first, meant that they had yet to endure the proper real-world challenge, but we were kind enough to apply a few firm presses to the gear in the name of science. The result? Well, let's just say that you might want to keep a lint-free cloth close to hand. But then if you're the kind to lay down the suggested $8,499 for the whole set, we imagine you might have thought that far ahead already. Check the gallery below to see the whole set, up close and personal. Billy Steele contributed to this report.
Pioneer intros Platinum Edition CDJ-2000nexus, matching mixer and remixer
DJs and even nightclubs don't always get to choose the decks for gigs or studio sessions. In the event they do, however, they'll likely want a rig to remember -- and Pioneer is more than willing to sate that desire with new Platinum Editions of the CDJ-2000nexus CD turntable, DJM-900nexus mixer and RMX-1000 Remix Station. All three are similar to existing equipment on the inside, but come with an extra-reflective chrome finish that's bound to be noticed, if more by the DJ than the audience on the dance floor. They'll also be harder to find when they're shipping in limited quantities from the outset; the mirror-like treatment is coming to just 4,000 units of the CDJ-2000nexus, and 2,000 each of the DJM-900nexus and RMX-1000. Scratch artists looking for full-on flash will need to buy two turntables and a mixer together as part of a $8,499 Platinum Edition set due in February, although those wanting a small taste of the experience can buy the remixer by itself for $1,199.
Pioneer shows off 2013 head unit line, rocks our minds with bass (video)
Pioneer launched a stack of new sets this year for CES as well as an iPhone 5 connectivity solution for those left hanging since upgrading to Apple's latest phone. We've seen the head unit specs so we thought we'd give you a pic tour of the newest devices as well as a short clip of us sitting in the custom Lexus CT 200h playing with its ridiculous stereo. The centerpiece of the system is the AVH-X8500BHS receiver (above) and a custom Steampunk-inspired sub enclosure loaded with six PRS D800 amps. End result? hair-moving, skin-creeping bass and volume. We're digging seeing all the AppRadio expansion to Pioneers's line and can only hope we see prices drop -- and even become pack-ins -- for the now rather expensive connectivity cables.
Pioneer reveals three new in-dash touchscreen multimedia receivers with AppRadio, DVD, SiriusXM and more
At CES 2013, Pioneer wants to lead the way, literally. It plans to do this with three new in-dash navigation receivers -- the AVIC-Z150BH, AVIC-X950BH, and AVIC-X850BT. The first two feature a 7-inch touchscreen with HDMI, USB, SD (microSD on the AVIC-X950BH) and component inputs plus DVD playback, "dual zone" capability, Bluetooth, and built-in RDS-TMC traffic and HD radio tuners. There's also 8GB of flash memory and 3D graphics acceleration, AppRadio mode, and SiriusXM support across the range. The AVIC-X850BT, however, is pegged as the more affordable option and as such lacks the HDMI input and HD Radio and comes with a smaller, 6.1-inch (WVGA) screen. All the new units will be available in late March with the AVIC-X850BT costing $800, the AVIC-X950BH $950 or bag yourself the top end AVIC-Z150BH for $1,200. Full PR after the break.
Pioneer breaks the road trip monotony with three new in-dash multimedia DVD receivers at CES
While Pioneer may have just announced a bevy of navigation-based goodies, it's also introduced some straight-up in-car entertainment. Three new multimedia and DVD receivers to be precise. The AVH-X6500DVD, AVH-X7500BT and AVH-X8500BHS feature MIXTRAX virtual DJ software, AppRadio mode, USB and smartphone connectivity plus internet radio, high resolution touch screens and Pandora. The AVH-X8500BHS and AVH-X7500BT benefit from "enhanced" iPhone 5 connectivity, and Bluetooth, with the former also having support for SiriusXM and HD Radio. To navigate your way around, all three have motorised 7-inch WVGA displays, along with EQ gesture control and detachable faces. For $450 you can get the AVH-X6500DVD, $500 will snag you the AVH-X7500BT, while you'll need to lay down $650 if you fancy a bit of the AVH-X8500BHS, all of which are available in March. Tune in to the full PR after the break.
Pioneer announces iPhone 5 connectivity kits for AppRadio 2 and friends
As part of its CES 2013 announcements, Pioneer will launch iPhone 5 connectivity kits for 13 of its in-dash products some time this spring. This is bound to be a bit of entertainment relief for the many of you who've upgraded to iPhone 5 and found your Pioneer set's AppMode was unable to follow your chosen path. There will be three different connectivity kits available for purchase: the CD-IH202 (HDMI), CD-IV202AV (VGA) and CD-IV202NAVI (VGA) for the various devices types -- coupled with mandatory firmware updates for any head unit using digital connectivity. The HDMI solution will set you back $50 at the register and includes a 2-meter HDMI cable, a 1.5-meter 17-pin to USB charging cable for the iPhone 5, and the unfortunate need to purchase both the $19 Lightning to USB and $49 Lightning digital AV adapters. Compatible VGA sets will require a $100 kit which includes a proprietary interface cable and control module for all your audio and video needs, a 1.5-meter USB charging cable and the same two Apple Lightning cables as above. No mention of pack-in cable options going forward, though we'd assume a transition to iPhone 5 connectivity is where we'll eventually end up. We dig that Pioneer was able to get this to market, though, we're starting to think that a used iPhone 4 might ultimately be cheaper than the kit and extra cables required.
IRL: Pioneer VSX-60, Three UK and a Windows Phone 8 wish list
Welcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment. We're back, this time with an unusual mashup between Engadget HD and Engadget Mobile. Kicking things off on the HD side, our own Ben Drawbaugh tells us what it's like to live with Pioneer's VSX-60 AV receiver. Meanwhile, Dan switches to Three UK for home broadband, and Deepak makes a plea for home screen folders in Windows Phone 8.
Firmware updates for Pioneer AV receivers add HTC Connect music streaming compatibility
Pioneer flirted with HTC Connect earlier in the year, and now the relationship is getting more serious with firmware upgrades to Pioneer's AV receivers adding compatibility for the DLNA streaming tech. Fresh firmware is available now for the majority of 2012-model standard and Elite receivers, so if you've got a One series handset, an EVO 4G LTE, a Droid Incredible 4G LTE or a brand new Droid DNA, wireless streaming is just an update away. To see if your receiver has been granted HTC Connect-certification, head to the source below, where you'll also find links to download the relevant firmware.
