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Sony's 5.1-channel HT-IS100 HTIB touts golf ball-sized satellites
It's a common issue: you're looking to get a bona fide surround sound system, but you've no room for any monstrous towers or bulky bookshelf surrounds. Enter Sony's latest HTIB, the HT-IS100. Featuring a 200-watt subwoofer complemented by five "golf ball-sized" satellites that get 45-watts apiece, the system supports Dolby Digital / Dolby Pro Logic II / DTS and comes with a handy remote. As for the port selection, you'll find a trio of HDMI and optical digital audio jacks, coaxial digital audio, composite (x2) and stereo outs as well. Unfortunately, there's no telling when the set will be coming Stateside (though launches in North America and Europe are promised), but those in Japan can look for it on June 25th for ¥90,000 ($883).[Via AP]
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.
Sony breaks out 2.1 BRAVIA DAV-F200 home theater system
Truth be told, we knew this gem was waiting in Sony's pocket, but it finally came clean and made things official over in Europe. The 2.1 BRAVIA DAV-F200 home theater system features S-Master digital amplification, which delivers a potent 135-watts of power to each speaker (including the subwoofer). The firm also threw in its S-Force Front Surround technology to help convince your mind that 2.1 is really 5.1, and as for the integrated DVD player, it plays nice with MP3 / photo / DivX discs, too. Better still, the unit includes 1080p upscaling over HDMI along with a built-in USB port for listening to WMA / AAC files, and there's even optical / coaxial digital inputs for other external sources. Regrettably, there's no word on a price nor US availability, but we can say for certain that those across the pond can claim their own this June.[Via Pocket-lint]
Onkyo 2.1 HTX-22D sound system taps DTS' Surround Sensation
Not content with dropping a few new HTIB systems and an all new receiver, Onkyo is apparently delivering a 2.1-channel home audio system, too. The HTX-22D, while not adequate for surround sound purists, may be just the thing for apartment dwellers and movie lovers on a budget. It's said to be the first system to feature DTS' CES-announced Surround Sensation feature, and it also boasts a built-in display on the powered subwoofer. You'll also find a trio of HDMI ports (two in, one out) and support for a smattering of audio codecs. Head on down to the read link for the full list of specs, and keep an eye for these to land across the pond in May for £300 ($590).[Thanks, Steve]
Goodmans iPod boombox includes 7-inch LCD display
If you've somehow managed to hold off from buying an iPod sound system, you can probably afford to gloss right over this one, too. Still, those waiting for one with just a touch more extravagance will likely find lots to love about Goodmans' latest iteration. Aside from boasting a pair of speakers, 3-in-1 multicard reader, LED accents, iPod dock and a bundled remote, this unit also includes an integrated 7-inch LCD display for showing off stored clips, photos, etc. Interestingly, we're left to wonder what the exact resolution here is, but if it's not impressive enough to share, you can probably look forward to lackluster results. We won't stop you from taking a chance though -- it's your £89.99 ($178).[Via ChipChick]
Canton intros Movie 80 CX and Movie 120 MX HTIB systems
Yeah, most HTIB systems aren't anything to phone home about, but we've a sneaking suspicion that Canton's latest duo would outperform the bulk of those found strewn about in big box retailers. Up first is the Movie 80 CX, which includes four two-way mini satellites (3.5-inches tall, 4-inches deep) and a 100-watt powered subwoofer that packs a 6-inch cellulose / graphite driver in a bandpass enclosure. Next, we've got the Movie 120 MX, which has its sats arranged in a more vertical position for increased cabinet volume and better mid-bass performance. Additionally, this set includes an 8-inch subbie that can reach all the way down to 33Hz. As for pricing, you can pick up the 80 CX for $699, while the 120 MX will land at $899 in glossy black or silver outfits. %Gallery-18272%
Elonex offers up Cube Play boombox, eXentia pro all-in-one PC
It's been nearly three years since Elonex delivered its original eXentia Media Center PC, but now the firm is hitting back with a new iteration along with an interesting boombox. The £999 ($2,045) eXentia pro all-in-one PC (pictured after the jump) boasts a 22-inch LCD and packs a 2.2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo E4500 processor, 1GB of RAM, a 320GB hard drive, DVD writer, integrated WiFi / Bluetooth and Windows Vista. As for the Cube Play (£179; $366), you'll find a fairly standard looking home stereo system with an eye-catching seven-inch LCD stuffed right in the middle of the action. What's that for, you say? Probably for you to check out DVDs or OTA Freeview broadcasts courtesy of the built-in DVD player and DVB TV tuner, that's what. Furthermore, the unit packs AV outputs, a USB port for loading up media, an FM tuner and a wireless remote. We'd say you could go on and pick up either right away, but both look to be out of stock for the time being.[Thanks, Alex]Read - Elonex Cube PlayRead - Elonex eXentia pro
Audio Pro Porto iPod speaker system goes vertical
Branching out from the oh-so-typical when it comes to iPod sound systems is Audio Pro, who has put together a fairly unique docking station that takes your music (and iPod) higher. The rectangular, vertical design scheme may not fit the elongated mold that has been created for these type devices, but it plays nice with your dock-connecting iPod, tunes into FM stations, and handles a duo of other auxiliary units nevertheless. The boxes don black or red color schemes, sport a removable grill to show off the trio of drivers beneath, and even includes a nifty carry handle that admittedly detracts from the overall allure while adding utility. No word on price nor availability just yet, but be sure to click through for a darker shade.[Via ChipChick]
Logitec cranks out six new iPod speaker stations
You won't have any difficulty convincing us that the iPod speaker system niche is entirely oversaturated with copycat offerings, but apparently, that message isn't fazing Logitec. The company has announced a whopping six new speaker docks for various Apple players, including the LDS-Xi900BK 2.1 system that utilizes NXT Surface Sound technology and gives users an extra pair of auxiliary inputs and a TV output, and the LDS-Ri500 (pictured above) series that looks more like a tag-along safe than a AC or battery-powered boombox with FM radio capability. Furthermore, the LDS-Si101WH and LDS-Si100WH/BK get downsized in order to handle your nano or 2G Shuffle, and while prices are still up in the air for the half dozen devices, they should all hit the shelves simultaneously come June. Click on through for a bundle of pics. [Via AkihabaraNews]
Mondo intros "new age" Mondo Mint iPod sound system
Those of you still not satisfied with the multitude of iPod sound systems out there may want to give this latest unit from upstart Mondo some consideration, which offers much of what you'd expect along with a couple of less-than-common bonuses. At the center of the system is a Class-D digital amplifier, which pumps out 70 watts of power to the two two-way, wood-construction speakers (consisting of Peerless neodymium tweeters and 4-inch AuraSound aluminum cone woofers). You'll also get not one, but two iPod docks: one on the amplifier itself, and one on the included wireless dock, which will let you control the system from up to 100 feet away (a standard remote control is included as well). Mondo's also thankfully seen fit to include a a USB port and a line-in jack for your non-iPod audio needs. Look for this one to be available on June 11th for $349.
Boston Innovative's iMep boombox sports iPod dock and LCD
We know, the iPod boombox market is entirely over saturated as it is, but Boston Innovative's latest attempt at joining the fray is so fully featured (and oh-so-cheesy), we can't help but check it out. The fire engine red device can purportedly be snapped up in black as well, and features a built-in iPod dock, seven-inch LCD, CD / DVD player, stereo speakers, integrated NTSC TV tuner, an AM / FM radio tuner, USB port, and support for SD, MMC, and MS flash cards. Notably, you'll also find optical and coaxial digital audio outs alongside the typical composite video output, as well as a connection for an external television or radio antenna. A couple of models enable users to pick a flip-up screen or a front-mounted display, and while we wouldn't count on the sound quality to be anything worthy of praise, you can pick one up for your next excursion for $300.[Via CNET]
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.
Sony intros bevy of Bluetooth / A2DP-enabled stereo systems
Apparently Sony has hopped on the "more the merrier" bandwagon, as its steady stream of new kit continues to roll out. The latest set of releases sees a few new wireless boomboxes, presumably crafted for those who aren't keen on wrapping a set of Bluetooth-enabled cans around their dome in order to hear their tunes. The low-end CMT-BX5BT mini system touts wooden stereo speaker cabinets, an AM / FM tuner, built-in CD / MP3 disc player, ID3 tag support, external LCD, 15-watts of amplification, bass reflex system, 30 station presets, and a musical alarm clock to boot. The CMT-HX7BT ups the ante by adding satellite radio readiness and a 50-watt S-Master digital amplifier, while the flagship CMT-DH7BT packs all of the aforementioned niceties plus an integrated DVD player. Closing out the pack is the ZS-BT1 wireless boombox, which seems to be tailored more for portable / outdoor use considering its A2DP support, shuffle feature for CDs / MP3s, ten-key remote control, and Mega Bass technology. The CMT trio will all be available in April from $150 to $300, while the $150 ZS-BT1 won't land until August.[Via Pocket-Lint] %Gallery-1831%
Microsoft's bumpin' Zune SUV disturbs the New York peace
Granted, we've seen some fairly bizarre methods of promoting one's product, and while Microsoft's Zune hasn't exactly been tagged with controversial propaganda or flashy automobile campaigns just yet, all that changed in a New York minute. According to reports from Hell Square residents in lower Manhattan, a California-tagged, Zune-branded SUV rolled through Ludlow Street during the "wee hours of February 25th," but rather than handing out flyers to the night-owls still roaming, the vehicle decided to test out its "competition grade stereo system" in a densely populated neighborhood. Dubbed an "egregious display of noise terrorism," the 3:00AM blasting from a (presumably Microsoft owned) Toyota FJ Cruiser didn't garner the positive attention that the firm was apparently hoping for, and consequently, quite a few residents of the area are now flaming mad and demanding restitution. Honestly, we've no problem with a little viral marketing every now and then, but blowing out the 'hood on a Sunday morning probably takes things a bit too far, and if you're interested in catching a video of the blasting in action, be sure to hit the read link and await an official apology that will probably never surface.
Audiovox shows off DV7600XM XM Mini-Tuner home theater system
Audiovox is broadening its XM love from the portable / in-car units to a home theater in-a-box with its DV7600XM XM Mini-Tuner home theater system. This all-in-one solution features 600-watts of earth-movin' power, five satellite cubes, a passive subwoofer, and a slim, retro-styled DVD player / XM tuner. While we assume you'll find the usual assortment of AV ins and outs, there's not too many details floating around on this one just yet, but if you're scouting a 5.1 system with a dash of XM already throw in, the DV7600XM should go for $159.95 when it skedaddles on out of CES.
Elipson Planets tease audiophiles, sport A2DP Bluetooth
No, a decent Bluetooth-enabled sound system isn't impossible to find, but tracking one down with "audiophile" potential is understandably tougher. High-end French boutique Elipson has teamed up with Bluetooth guru Parrot to bring us the self-proclaimed answer to the audiophile's quest in locating a simple, wireless, BT-enabled set of speakers. The Elipson Planets boast a sleek, black (or white), spherical design scheme, and sport a "custom built" Bluetooth 2.0 EDR module which enables each speaker to automatically pair up when turned on. The tunes flow from the two-way 60-watt drivers, and while it only reaches down to 48Hz, it purportedly rocks a "bass-reflex" design to handle the thumps. Aside from plugging in your standard stereo cable, these orbs can receive data from any A2DP-compliant device, be it your PDA, cellphone, or third-party Bluetooth adapter. Although we're digging the design and wouldn't mind a nice set of perfectly precise speaks ourselves, whether or not they're honestly worth the €999 ($1,323) price of admission is certainly debatable.[Via TrustedReviews]
Atlantic launches waterproof EGO floating speaker system for iPod
Considering your mind is probably more focused on that upcoming trip to the slopes than your thoroughly frozen outdoor pool, you probably aren't in any dire need of a floating iPod speaker system in the midst of January, but nevertheless, Atlantic's bringing it to you. Aside from always staying on the sunny side of whatever liquid it's in, the plastic shell also touts a pair of (presumably weak) stereo speakers and the ability to house your dock-connecting iPod. Reportedly, the device is waterproof enough to withstand pool parties and showers, and can supposedly operate for 30 hours on just four AA batteries. While the EGO has been floating around (ahem) briefly, the firm plans to officially launch it during next week's CES, but those eager to get their swim trunks on in the middle of winter can find one now for around $115.[Via TGDaily]
Intempo's colorful IDS-01b iPod speaker dock
Now that the nanos have gone rainbow, it's only fitting that we see some color-matched accessories to show off your DAP. Intempo's IDS-01b iPod Speakers & Dock comes in metallic silver, green, blue, and pink (sorry, RED owners), and touts all the typical niceties (and drawbacks) you'd expect in a ho hum iPod speaker dock. The unit boasts dual six-watt drivers, functionality with "all" dock connecting iPods, an aux input for your other DAPs / PMPs, and a USB cable to sync up your 'Pod with the nearby Mac or PC. Unfortunately, the device doesn't sport any sort of battery powered option, so you're stuck sans sound if you deviate too far from an extension cord, and we don't imagine those shiny Neodymium drivers delivering any sort of award-winning audio quality either. Regardless, Intempo's latest can be picked up now across the pond for £34.99 ($69).[Via ShinyShiny]
iLuv unveils iss314 sound system for Samsung's Yepp T9
While there's plenty of alarm clocks and mini stereos tailored to work seamlessly with your iPod, all those other DAPs seem to come out with the short straw. iLuv's making sure at least one other alternative gets some accessorizing love, as the firm has just announced its second dedicated speaker system for Samsung's Yepp T9 in the past week. While the iss277 touts an iHome-esque alarm clock design, the iss314 sports a circular speaker area with the T9 slot residing front and center, providing a convenient look at the current track title and a charging port to boot. The device also boasts an aux input for any other musical input, as well as a dedicated subwoofer output for adding the low-lows that these mini systems oftentimes lack. While we're not sure when you South Koreans will see this on store shelves, the 33-watt sound machine will run you 139,000KRW ($150) whenever it does.
Directed unveils Soloist universal media dock
If you've ever dreamed of morphing your Sirius boombox and iPod speaker system into one incredibly convenient unit, you're obviously not alone. Directed Electronics has raised the curtains on its Soloist universal media dock, which apparently hopes to be an end-all solution to folks who don't want a separate sound system for every media player they own. Although this is labeled with the ever-trendy "universal" tagline, it's clear this NXT-powered device was created with Apple's cash cow and Sirius subscribers in mind. The Soloist utilizes SurfaceSound flat panel speaker technology, and packs a subtle 10 watt-per-channel Tripath amplifier into a thin, black housing. While the system will definitely support the iPod and Sirius varieties, an untold amount of other interchangeable cradles will supposedly be included. Just in case your DAP is shunned in the cradle department, an aux-in port is provided along with a headphone jack and a Sirius in-house antenna to boot. The portability crowd will be a bit bummed that the Soloist only plays when connected to an AC outlet, as a battery compartment is MIA, but you will be able to wake to your favorite tune or Sirius station thanks to the built-in alarm clock, which could possibly make dragging yourself out of bed at least slightly less excruciating. This surprisingly well-featured device might not replace your high-end speaker systems, but if consolidation becomes a necessity, you can snag the Soloist for $149 this September.