surround sound
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Beyerdynamic brings trio of "5.1" headphones to America
Beyerdynamic's "head tracking" Headzone Home (pictured) system has been available across the pond for quite some time, but the outfit has just announced that it, along with the Headzone Home HT and Headzone Game, are now headed stateside. The headzone tech promises a "virtual 5.1 experience," which links together the processor, headphone and Head tracking receiver, and while we don't doubt that this rig would sound pretty darn good, we're a bit scared by the omission of US price tag. You know, given that the Home setup ran well over $3,000 when it launched overseas.
Radiient to demo UWB-based Roomcaster: makes your entire 5.1 system wireless
We've already seen one product headed for CES that makes any corded 5.1-channel surround system a wireless one, but now you've got one more option. Radiient Technologies is debuting the Roomcaster at CES 2009, a similar setup but based on the ultra-wideband (UWB) protocol. The Roomcaster Early Adapter Kit, which is the rig that will be shown in Vegas, will consist of a single transmitter and six speaker adapters, and we're assured that it can deliver "uncompressed, 24-bit, up-to-eight-channel digital audio at an up-to-96 kHz sampling rate." Radiient has employed a mesh network to ensure dropout-free performance, but you can bet it won't come cheap. In fact, it's downright ludicrous. Wouldn't you call $1,999 ludicrous?
Sony intros BRAVIA HTP-BD3iS / BDV-FS350 Blu-ray HTIB systems in UK
Just in case you needed some new kit to throw on and around your BRAVIA RHT-G500 home theater stand, Sony's got two new bundles that ought to fit the bill -- so long as you're in the UK, that is. The BRAVIA BDV-FS350 (pictured) gets things going with a compact 2.1-channel sound system paired with an undisclosed Blu-ray deck (likely the BDP-S350) and an active subwoofer. The package also promises DVD upscaling over HDMI, BRAVIA Sync, a DIGITAL MEDIA PORT for hooking up your portable music device and S-Force PRO Front Surround technology. Moving on, we've got the HTP-BD3IS, hailed as Sony's "most advanced home theater setup yet." This one includes 450-watts spread over 5.1-channels, three HDMI inputs (one output) and inbuilt Dolby TrueHD / DTS-HD decoding. You can add either to your basket right now for £489.00 ($751) / £678.99 ($1,043), respectively.
How-to guide breaks down 7.1-channel audio setup procedure
Blu-ray player? Check. An AV receiver? Check. Loads of cables? Check. Knowledge of how to hook everything up for maximum impact? Uh, not so much. BigPictureBigSound has hosted up a nice how-to guide for making the most of the multi-channel audio that's just waiting to ooze out of your Blu-ray player. The writeup covers both HDMI and analog approaches, and it breaks it down in five easy-to-digest steps so that you don't get all overwhelmed. Go 'head, give it a look -- it's not that difficult, we promise.
IOSONO installs first 308-channel surround system in the US
Remember that patently insane IOSONO holographic audio system that was demonstrated last month? The very first one has been installed in the US of A. As part of the multi-million dollar renovation of the Museum of Tolerance / Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, a 308-channel IOSONO sound system was installed in the Peltz Theater. According to Electrosonic project manager Steve Calver, said system is the "crown jewel" of the place, as it adds "308 independent audio channels and five subwoofer channels, which are entirely hidden within the architectural elements of the theater." The purpose? To distribute sound as perfectly as possible to every seat in the house. Additionally, HD video capabilities were added courtesy of a Christie high-def projector, and there was even an undisclosed Blu-ray player tossed in for good measure. So, when's the next showing of, um, anything at this place?
SRS Labs' iWOW adaptor for iPods changes the way we think about portable audio
You might not know this, but life as you once knew it is over. No, we're not talking about crises economic or environmental, the Red Menace, or the count down to the year 2012. Much larger than all of this, SRS Labs has announced its iWOW adapter for the iPod. This device is a hardware-based version of their "award winning" iWOW plug-in for iTunes, bringing the same "expansive sound stage" experience that you've been enjoying on your home computer to your iPod Classic, iPod 5G, or iPod nano 3G. Surely, one can't put a price tag on this sort of revolutionary, immersive audio technology, but if we did we're guessing it would be listing for $99 or so. What are you waiting for? The only real danger, as far as we can see it, is that the aural experience turns out to be so mind-blowing that you wind up as some sort of comatose vegetable. But you know what? It's probably worth the risk.
HTIB shootout picks the best at a variety of price points
We've already seen one speaker guide pop up this fall / winter, but for those not so keen on piecing together a multi-channel setup themselves, PC World has a solid alternative. It has taken a cold, hard look at seven home-theater-in-box (HTIB) setups ranging from $500 to $3,000 and picked the best one at each price level. We won't spoil anything here, but if you've been looking for some assistance in choosing from the plethora of options out there, this ain't a bad place to get educated.
DTS posts profitable quarter, expects bright future thanks to Blu-ray
There aren't too many firms out there posting awesome Q3 reports, but DTS is one of the rare exceptions. Recently, the firm reported a net income of $2 million on revenues of $14 million, though $1.6 million of those revenues were in the form of royalties. CEO Jon Kirchner was quoted as saying that "overall, we remain cautious about the near-term industry outlook, but we continue to believe in the attractive long-term prospects for the Blu-ray format and for our business." Guess that's assuming Blu-ray adoption picks up in Q4 and beyond, huh?
IOSONO showcases 380-speaker holographic audio solution
We've seen some pretty intense multi-channel audio rigs, but 380 speakers? At the SMPTE 2008 Tech Conference and Expo in Hollywood, IOSONO introduced its holographic audio solution for cinemas -- a fitting complement to the bevy of 3D films just around the bend. Reportedly, the system can be adjusted on a per-room basis and expanded between 200 and 500 drivers; the location of each speaker is "measured with a laser and used to calibrate the exhibition player software." The drivers are arranged in three rows, with the top and bottom being woofers and the middle consisting of tweeters. As you'd expect, the solution envelops the auditorium completely, and up to 32 unique sound objects can be placed within the 3D virtual sound space. There's no mention of how costly this will be to theaters (or exceptionally weather home theater owners), but we can only hope to hear it in more cinemas shortly.
High-def audio wiring guide removes the mystery
Granted, we've already shown you how to actually take advantage of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, but if you're looking for a quick and dirty breakdown of what each audio codec means, what it can / can't do and how to wire things up with your current setup, Missing Remote's latest guide is for you. For starters, it hones in on Blu-ray audio format support -- quite relevant given the state of the format war these days -- and it continues on by explaining how to wire things up for superior results with S/PDIF, HDMI, analog, etc. There's even a special section dedicated to HTPC playback, which ought to help you folks not using a pre-fab deck. If you've been spinning your wheels of late in the wide world of multi-channel audio, have a look at the read link and see if things don't clear up.
Analog Devices' SoundMax chips bring 5.1 to the TV speaker masses
Claiming that 85% of HDTVs won't be hooked up to external audio equipment, Analog Devices is trying to convince flat panel manufacturers to fit its technology behind the only two speakers many people will ever use. SoundMAX audio processors are built to match plasma and LCD high definition video quality with support for Dolby, SRS and BBE Sound. "Now available", don't be surprised if the ADAV4622, ADAV4601 and ADAV4322 sneak into a flat panel HDTV near you very soon -- if you're the kind of person who needs them, or the kind of person who laughs at folks still listening to audio from their television.
Sony's BDV-IT1000ES and BDV-IS1000 HTIB systems do Blu-ray
Sony's BDV-IT1000 HTIB was outed late last month, but that's not stopping the powerhouse from making it official alongside the BDV-IS1000 today at CEDIA. As you likely know, these two are Sony's first offerings in the burgeoning Blu-ray HTIB market, as both packages come bundled with an elusive BD-Live-capable deck (the BDP-S350, we presume?) along with integrated support for the firm's S-AIR technology. Each set packs a pair of HDMI inputs, XMB menu navigation, 5.1-channel surround sound, Digital Media Port (for hooking up your PMP), BRAVIA Sync and even an IR repeater on the IT1000ES. The aforesaid BDV-IT1000ES ($1,999) includes oh-so-slim drivers (pictured after the jump), while the $1,000 BDV-IS1000 includes the same "golf ball-sized" speaks as the HT-IS100. Both sets are shipping next month, or so says the release waiting after the break.
Philips intros the CinemaOne iPod / DVD soundbar
We suppose it was just a matter of time before iPod docks and HTIBs achieved some sort of unholy union, and their demonic lovechild has appeared at IFA -- say hello to the Philips CinemaOne. Essentially a mashup of an iPod speaker system, a DVD player, and a soundbar, it's designed to plug in to your flatscreen via HDMI and provide surround audio through five DSP-driven speakers and 4-inch sub, all in a package about the size of a football. The DivX-compatible DVD player seems decent, with 1080p scaling and Dolby Digital and DTS support, but even though the speakers use the same soundbar tech found in Philips' Ambisound line, we've got our doubts that this thing sounds any good -- most soundbars we've heard require a separate large sub to be effective. No pricing or release date yet, but we'd wait to actually hear this thing in person before we started to set aside spare change. Action shot after the break.
Ask Engadget HD: What's the best HTIB system?
Let's face it -- not everyone has the space nor disposable income to piece together their own multichannel surround sound system, and that's where this week's Ask Engadget HD question comes in. Take it away, Todd: "I'm currently stuck in a small apartment with a need for surround sound, but I can't go buy a bunch of separates and create a system. I'm obviously in the market for a small but great sounding HTIB. I already own a Blu-ray player, so I'm not too concerned with any built-in DVD / BD players. Which 5.1 (or greater) set out there today offers the best bang for my buck?" There's no shame in buying your surround sound in a box, so puff out your chest and give this man an answer. Are you pleased with the sound quality / volume / overall performance of your boxed rig? Does your friend's unit sound better? Turn it to 11 and speak up!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.
Vizio to reportedly release cheap soundbar with wireless subwoofer
As much as we love soundbars for cramped spaces and areas where full-blown multi-channel setups just aren't feasible, we've noticed that any decent one usually costs a wad. Thankfully, the firm known for astounding consumers with low-priced flat-panels will reportedly be doling out a soundbar of its own this fall. According to CNET, Vizio will be releasing a faux-surround system with a wireless subwoofer for the low, low price of $299. There's no mention of the specs just yet, but even if it just sounds slightly above average, it'll probably be worth three bills. Keep an eye out for this one to land in September (possibly at CEDIA?).
SPEED adds Neural-THX Surround to HD broadcasts
After Neural-THX Surround got around 14.5 minutes in the limelight with its Super Bowl XLII showing earlier this year, the technology has remained far, far away from the press. Now, however, SPEED is vowing to integrate Neural-THX Surround professional products "for its HD programming schedule covering NASCAR, Grand Am, IndyCar, etc." For those unfamiliar with the technology, it goes a little something like this: 5.1 sound from the track is taken in, beamed over stereo channels to minimize bandwidth usage and then decoded by specially equipped receivers for "5.1 surround" in the living room. From what we can tell, the tech should be ready to roll right now, so it's up to you to snatch up an AVR in order to take advantage.
Turtle Beach keeps series alive with Ear Force X4 wireless headphones
Be honest, you were terrified that Turtle Beach would leave the awesomely titled Ear Force series sitting in lurk at X3, weren't you? Thankfully, that's not the case at all, as the Ear Force X4 wireless headphones have just been revealed. Designed with Xbox 360 gamers in mind, this headset / headphone combo promises to provide Dolby 5.1 surround sound out of just two earcups (we're still checking on the velvet-lined part), and more importantly, the Chat Boost Dynamic Talkback Expander "automatically adjusts incoming XBOX Live chat levels during loud game moments" to keep you from going deaf when NewbX1337 gets all whiny on you. Can't say we're thrilled by the $199.95 price tag, but these are available now for those who are.[Via IGN]
Yamaha intros YSP-3050 Digital Sound Projector
Yamaha cranked out its pricey YSP-600 sound bar just a few months back, but the company's already looking to put the past behind and move forward with the YSP-3050. The latest in the outfit's long-standing line of Digital Sound Projectors offers up 21 beam drivers, two woofers, 23 corresponding digital amplifiers, three Cinema DSP programs (movie, music and sports), analog-to-HDMI video upconversion, HD upscaling to 1080i / 720p and a 1080p (24Hz and 60Hz) compatible HDMI interface with two inputs and one output. Aside from engulfing you in audio with just a single bar, the unit is also XM Radio / iPod-ready (via the $99.95 YDS-11), and the integrated FM tuner and bundled remote make it even easier to see in your den. You'll also find the firm's propriety automated system calibration (IntelliBeam) along with TV Equal Volume to keep those sudden bursts at bay when it comes time for commercials. 'Tis a shame this piece costs $1,399.95, but if you're tight on space, it just might be worth it. Full release after the break.
Onkyo's TX-SA706X 7.1 receiver is beastly, Mr. T approved
It's too early to tell if gold-colored components really are making a comeback, but you better believe Onkyo's at the forefront of the gilded parade. Shortly after pumping out the TX-SA606X in Japan (and the TX-SA606 in America), the TX-SA706X has arrived to take things one step further. This 7.1-channel receiver delivers a potent 200-watts of juice to each channel and includes five HDMI 1.3 inputs (alongside one output), a frequency response of 5Hz to 100,000Hz, Audyssey Dynamic EQ processing and built-in decoding for Dolby TrueHD / DTS-HD Master Audio formats. Granted, such a monster of an AVR won't become your very own with putting a nice size dent in your wallet, but those in Japan can treat themselves on July 19th when it lands for ¥189,000 ($1,781).[Via HDTV Space] %Gallery-26352%
Pioneer reveals four new HTIB systems, three with Blu-ray players
We've seen a few HTIB systems trickle out from the Pioneer labs of late, but never four at once. Today, the firm has made official a foursome of home cinema systems slated to hit Europe in the fall, so we'll cut right to the chase. The LX03 is the lone system with a DVD / SACD player and USB port, while the others thoughtfully include Blu-ray decks. The LX03BD (satellite speakers included) and LX08BD (no satellites included) feature 500-watts of power, HDMI 1.3 sockets (2 in / 1 out), KURO LINK, an iPod connection and a 7-band equalizer. The LX01BD includes omni-direction speakers, 400-watts of power and pretty much everything else found on the LX08BD. For complete specifications, be sure to give the read link a visit; as for availability, you'll find the LX03, LX03BD and LX08BD systems in October while the LX01BD arrives in November.
