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JVC Releases Active Speakers

Posted by Sheila Franklin Categories: Accessories, Design, Misc. Tech, Music,

JVC Active Speakers

JVC has unveiled its new series of Active Speakers. The SP-A440 was built with 2 sets of 1.3-inch drivers for what should be excellent and simplified surround sound. Stands are included for turning the speakers into different positions and angles. At a size of 61.5 x 63.0 x 61.5 mm and a weight of 163g, they are available in black, red, silver and white, and come with an AC adapter, and input and connecting cords for $79.99.

 

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2007 Holiday Gift Guide: Pioneer SE-DIR800C Surround Sound Headphones

Pioneer SE-DIR800C

The great thing about surround-sound headphones is that you can enjoy those loud, booming movies while not disturbing anyone else around. One of the best pairs of headhones in this category is are the SE-DIR800C models. These deliver nice, clear sound, even in action movies, with no audible distortion to be heard. They also stay comfortable on your ears while you sit through multiple full-length movies - that’s a rarity. They may be pricey, but they are perfect for what they are meant to do. They use Dolby Headphone processing to mimic a surround environment, and they do it well. They include a rechargeable battery, which has to be removed in order to be recharged. These run for $399 USD, but can be found cheaper by shopping around. Compare prices on Pioneer SE-DIR800C.

Read More | Pioneer SE-DIR800C on Amazon

2007 Holiday Gift Guide: Onkyo TX-NR905

Onkyo TX-NR905

Okay, the holidays are right around the corner. In our continuing effort to hook you up with the best gear, we had to point out the Onkyo TX-NR905. This is a product that has blown us away in our testing.

Let’s be clear - the Onkyo TX-NR905 A/V receiver isn’t the lightest device in the world, as it weighs in at 54 pounds - but that’s just about where the negatives end when it comes to this beast. This thing is like a classic Mustang - all muscle. You can throw anything at it - you know, players, game consoles, s, - and expect phenomenal 7.1 surround sound. And we mean pristine. Even better, the TX-NR905 bridges the gap between your entertainment center and the Internet by way of it’s Ethernet port. Hook up to the Internet, and you can stream Internet radio directly through this system. Moving on the picture quality - again, top notch all the way here. It will pump out 1080p signals, it supports 24p framerate, and has 2 HDMI outputs along with component out for your HDTV needs. Oh course, this thing is all about the sound. You get 140 watts per channel, and this is the most inexpensive receiver to feature THX Ultra2 certification. Believe me, if you haven’t heard it, you will be the envy of your block. Don’t worry though, you won’t be able to hear the complaints if you crank this thing up. Rounding out the feature set here, it will upconvert all inputs to 1080p, supports multiple zones, and also has HD radio built-in. Retails for $1,999. Compare prices on Onkyo TX-NR905.

Read More | Onkyo TX-NR905 on Amazon

CES 2007 Video: Dolby Booth Tour

We stopped by the Dolby booth while at CES to take a look and listen to their latest and greatest technologies. Of course, we had the film crew in tow, and were able to capture a full tour of their booth. Check the video to find out the latest from Dolby, as well as some innovations that are coming down the pike.


Bleeding Edge 081: CES 2007 Video: Monster 5.1 SuperDisc DVD Music

The guys at Monster had a great new audio technology to show us when we met up with them at CES. It won’t come across in this video, but the sound that their SuperDisc DVDs put out is incredible. We demo the technology in this episode.


Philips Releases New Ambilight HDTV Models

Philips Ambilight

After its recent debut at the IFA, Philips has released its Ambilight TV with models 32PF9731D and 42PF9731D, featuring 1366 x 768 resolution panels, and its 37PF9731D with a 1920 x 1080 1080p set. All three feature Philips’ Pixel Plus technology integrated with digital tuners and boast 2x HDMI ports along with two RGB scart sockets, component video input, S/PDIF in/out and an Ethernet port on the rear. Philips also utilizes Dolby Digital for full surround sound, and a USB connector for easy play.

Philips claims that Ambilight “makes an impressive contribution to the overall viewing experience with ambient light to complement the colours and light intensity of the image on screen. It creates ambiance, stimulates more relaxed viewing and improves perceived picture detail, contrast and colour.”

To experience Ambilight for yourself visit Philips. At price points of £1,799 (~$3396), £2,499 (~$4717) and £3,000 (~$5663), we may have to wait to catch Ambilight at the neighbors’ next Superbowl party.

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Amina AIW5 In-Wall Loudspeaker

AminaAIW5loudspeakersTalk about getting plastered! NXT has announced the US debut of Amina Technology Ltd’s In-wall loudspeakers. With a combination of high definition audio reproduction and some serious designing, these 16” speakers can be placed within any wood or metal stud-work wall. Sounds are recreated in a less directional, more evenly based way than traditional cone speakers so that no matter where you sit, you get the same great sound as everyone else.

The AIW5 can handle 80 watts of continuous power while generating 105 db of sound after applying plaster. Check with Amina for pricing and special sizing. The loudspeakers will be formally introduced at Denver’s CEDIA Expo 2006 starting September 13. In the meantime, think about all that room you will have for your next party.

Read More | AIW5 Speaker Product Page

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