Friday, February 27, 2015

Bryston Introduces the Mini A Loudspeaker

Bryston Introduces the Mini A Loudspeaker
 
A true three-way bookshelf design, the smallest speaker in the Bryston lineup offers superb performance for both music and home theater applications 
 
Peterborough, Ontario February 26, 2015 — Bryston has announced the introduction of the Mini A loudspeaker, a high-performance three-way bookshelf speaker engineered for superb resolution and balanced off-axis response—a hallmark of all Bryston loudspeaker models. At just over 15-inches tall, the Mini A features a sleek, décor-friendly form factor made sturdily from ¾-inch MDF and utilizing a premium quality 6.5-inch aluminum woofer, 3-inch aluminum midrange and 1-inch Titanium dome tweeter. All drivers are designed and purpose-built specifically for the Mini A loudspeaker.   
 
The Mini A design has benefitted from extensive enclosure vibration analysis, crossover network refinement and anechoic chamber testing in order to deliver true high-fidelity at an affordable price. Like all Bryston loudspeakers, the Mini A is capable of high output levels without introducing distortion or compression into the listening experience. Each pair is unit-to-unit matched to ensure uniform response. “The Mini was engineered from the ground up to set a performance standard for a speaker in this size and price range,” explained Bryston’s James Tanner. “Throughout our loudspeaker lineup, we employ three different midrange drivers and five different versions of our woofer—we are actually building drivers specifically to address design goals for each model.” The Mini A’s exceptional performance can be attributed to the refined product development process and quality components utilized in this loudspeaker,” Tanner added.
 
Home Theater
The Bryston Mini A is an ideal home theater speaker. Two pairs of Mini A loudspeakers (front and rear) combined with an AC-1 Micro center channel and the Model A subwoofer deliver Bryston performance in a complete 5.1 loudspeaker package for under $5000 MSRP. Also available is the Bryston CIW architectural speaker, a low profile timber-matched in-wall speaker solution ideal for home theater applications.   
 
The Bryston Mini A is available in Natural Cherry, Boston Cherry, and Black Ash. Custom finishes are also available for an upcharge. The Mini A features premium grade binding posts along with padded feet, spikes and a black fabric grille. Like all Bryston loudspeakers, the manufacturer’s warranty is 20 years. The Bryston Mini A loudspeaker has an MSRP of $1200 per pair and is available now from authorized Bryston dealers. Optional stands designed for the Mini A, which can be bolted to the speakers securing them in place, are available with an MSRP of $299 per pair.     
 
Specifications:
 
·         Frequency Response: 60Hz to 20Khz (+/- 3dB)
·         Impedance: 8 Ohms (nominal)
·         Sensitivity: 87 dB (2.38V, 1m, anechoic)
·         Recommended Power: 10 watts to 175 watts RMS
·         Max SPL @ 1M: 100dB
·         Tweeter: Single 1.00"
·         Midrange: Single 3.00"
·         Woofer: Single 6.50"
·         15.5” H x 8.5” W x 8.25” D / 394mm H x 215mm W x 210mm D
·         11 Ibs (5 kg)
 

 
About Bryston: Bryston (www.bryston.com) first opened for business in 1962 as a manufacturer of precision medical equipment. The company was purchased in 1968 by John W. Russell, an ex-NASA engineer. Together with sons Chris, Brian and John D., they first started exploring the field of accurate, reliable audio amplification in the early 1970s. Since that time, Bryston analog and digital components as well as loudspeakers and subwoofers have become legendary for their superior design, hand-built quality, superb performance and dependability for home, professional and commercial markets. Bryston components are used in some of the world’s most renowned recording studios and owned by many discerning music professionals. Bryston applies precision manufacturing techniques and materials in the assembly of equipment that are more typically utilized by the military and aerospace industries. Bryston is based in Peterborough, Ontario Canada, northeast of Toronto, and is sold through over 200 dealers in North America and 60 countries worldwide.  


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Thursday, February 26, 2015

AudioControl Launches Architect Model 2660 Power Amplifier Driving 16 Channels in Industry Leading 2U Chassis

WonB
PRESS RELEASE - IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AudioControl Launches Architect  Model 2660 Power 
Amplifier Driving 16 Channels in Industry Leading 2U Chassis
Unrivaled Audio Performance With 16 Channels at 65 Watts, Bridgeable to 8 Channels at 175 Watts, Stable into 4 Ohms, Analog and Digital Inputs, 2U Compact Chassis
SEATTLE, WA. - AudioControl, the Seattle-based audio design leader, is now shipping the Architect™ Model 2660, following its successful launch at CES 2015. This high-power architectural amplifier has been designed with industry feedback from more than 60 custom integration companies involved in designing AudioControl's next generation of architectural, network, multi-zone and compact zone, high-performance power amplifiers exclusively for the custom residential and professional audio markets.

The features of the Architect Model 2660 are like no other power amplifier on the market today, comprising of both analog & digital inputs. With 16 channels of true RMS power at 65 watts into 8 Ohms, 100 watts into 4 Ohms and designed to also be bridged as a high-power 8 channel amplifier at 175 watts per channel, the Architect Model 2660 leads the way in power, flexibility & performance.

Architect Model 2660
 
The Architect Model 2660 has been exclusively created for the residential and professional custom integrator and benefits from a high resolution S/PDIF digital audio input with an integrated Wolfson 32-192 KHz, 16/24 bit depth DAC. Features include dual BUS A/B inputs that can be routed to any output, discrete 12-volt and signal sense triggers for each independent zone and AudioControl's renowned LightDrive™ anti-clipping protection circuitry. In addition, AudioControl's proprietary PFM Subsonic Filter, energy efficient design at less than ½ watt in standby as well as the loop-out ability to pass-through signals to other amplifiers and independent volume level control, by channel and zone, adds increased flexibility and custom design across every project.

The Architect Model 2660 delivers a highly efficient energy output and therefore each amplifier can be installed into the rack without the need for separate rack spaces or additional cooling requirements, therefore requiring up to 70% less rack space than traditional amplifier installations. This important feature combined with the Architect Model 2660's ability to power 16 channels in a compact 2U chassis makes it one of the most space efficient, powerful and great sounding amplifiers on the market today. The design of the Architect Model 2660 creates an industry leading, flexible, easy to install amplifier directly benefiting from the input of custom integrators in its design phase. Its front and back LED and design are focused on installation and operational efficiency for dealers and installers.

"The Architect 2660 is the latest addition to our highly successful Architect series of power amplifiers that are among the best sounding and best performing multi-zone amplifiers in the industry today", said Alex Camara, CEO of AudioControl. "The Architect Model 2660 has been an incredibly satisfying design project for our engineering teams in Seattle. Our team, with incredible input from our customers, has launched the next generation of amplifiers that increasing flexibility and powering high performance with its design features directly originating from some of the best custom integration companies in the world. The Architect Model 2660 complements perfectly our entire 2015 lineup that continues on our mission to make good sound great in everything we love to do everyday here in our design and manufacturing facilities in Seattle". 
 
Architect 2660
 
The Architect Model 2660 is designed, engineered and built by AudioControl in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States a few minutes North of Seattle. It is available in espresso black, which represents Seattle's long-standing coffee heritage and comes with AudioControl's legendary 5-Year Warranty. The Architect Model 2660 comes ready equipped with removable rack-mounts and immediate shipping is available.
About AudioControl
AudioControl is a U.S. designer and manufacturer of the highest quality home theater processors and amplifiers, distributed audio amplifiers, car audio, signal processors and precise analysis products, celebrating nearly four decades of 'making good sound great'. The company's headquarters, including research and development, manufacturing, production, and training facilities continue to thrive in Seattle, Washington heart of the rainforest of the Pacific Northwest.

Contact your local AudioControl dealer or rep contact AudioControl directly in the rainforest at 425-775-8461 or email sound.great@audiocontrol.com for more information or to become an AudioControl dealer. www.audiocontrol.com.


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Tuesday, February 24, 2015

ASUS Announces the Fastest USB 3.1 solutions for Motherboards

ASUS Announces the Fastest USB 3.1 solutions for Motherboards
Fremont, CA (February 23, 2015) - ASUS today announced the world’s fastest and first complete line-up of SuperSpeed+ USB 3.1 solutions, including a range of motherboards with built-in USB 3.1 and two ASUS USB 3.1 Cards. The latter are the new PCI Express® (PCIe®) expansion card with either dual Type-A sockets or reversible Type-C, that fits quickly and easily to bring breakneck speeds to existing PCs.
The ASUS USB 3.1 Type-A Card (Dual)
Joe Hsieh, ASUS Corporate Vice President and General Manager, Motherboard and Desktop System Business Unit, said: “As the world’s number-one motherboard brand, we lead by providing the very latest technology for ASUS customers to enjoy. We worked closely with ASMedia Technology Inc to maximize USB 3.1 performance on both ASUS motherboards and our USB 3.1 Card products, ensuring that ASUS customers enjoy the very fastest data transfers from the new standard — and before anyone else!”

ASUS motherboards with dual 10Gbit/s USB 3.1 sockets and 2X-faster performance
Twelve ASUS motherboards have dual Type-A USB 3.1 ports built in for instant 10Gbit/s connectivity. Products with two USB 3.1 sockets onboard are signified with a ‘/USB 3.1’ suffix and include X99-Pro/USB 3.1, X99-A/USB 3.1 (Transfer Express), X99-A/USB 3.1, X99-E WS/USB 3.1, Z97-Deluxe/USB 3.1, Z97-Pro (Wi-Fi ac)/USB 3.1, Z97-A/USB 3.1, Z97-E/USB 3.1, Z97-K/USB3.1, Sabertooth Z97 Mark 1/USB 3.1, B85M-G Plus/USB 3.1 and B85-Plus/USB 3.1.
Easy-fit ASUS USB 3.1 Card with dual Type-A ports or reversible Type-C
The ASUS USB 3.1 Card is the world’s first USB 3.1 expansion card that fits swiftly into any PCIe x4, x8 or x16 slot to accelerate existing PCs to deliver lightning-speed transfers of up to 10Gbit/s. Available in two models, with either dual Type-A sockets or reversible Type-C, the new PCIe card is compatible immediately with all ASUS X99 and Z97 chipset-based motherboards and will be compatible soon with more ASUS motherboards via a simple BIOS and driver update.

The USB 3.1 Type-A Card (Dual) is also included with two new motherboard bundles with a ‘/U3.1’ suffix — Rampage V Extreme/U3.1 and X99-Deluxe/U3.1 — preconfigured and ready to go. Both USB 3.1 PCIe cards are available to purchase individually.

Exclusive ASUS USB 3.1 Boost for fastest-ever USB 3.1 data transfers
All ASUS USB 3.1 solutions include the ASUS USB 3.1 Boost utility for the very fastest USB 3.1 data transfers. This ASUS-exclusive technology automatically pushes USB 3.1 performance even further, with sustained sequential read/write speeds of up to speeds of up to 854.6/863.9MB/s — figures achieved by ASUS engineers in our own labs.

AVAILABILITY & PRICING ASUS USB 3.1-integreted motherboards, ASUS USB 3.1 Type-A (Dual) and ASUS USB 3.1 Type-C cards will be available at ASUS authorized resellers soon:
MSRP ETA
RAMPAGE V EXTREME/U3.1$5192/27
X99-PRO/USB 3.1$3392/27
X99-DELUXE/U3.1$4093/3
SABERTOOTH Z97 MARK 1/USB 3.1$2593/3
Z97-DELUXE/USB 3.1$2993/3
Z97-PRO (Wi-Fi AC)/USB 3.1$2293/3
X99-A/USB 3.1$2793/10
Z97-A/USB 3.1$1593/10
USB 3.1 PCIe Cards$393/10
SPECIFICATIONS1
ASUS USB 3.1 Type-A Card (Dual)ASUS USB 3.1 Type-C Card (Single)
  • Two Type-A 10Gbit/s USB 3.1 ports
  • Backwardly compatible with USB 3.0/2.0/1.1
  • PCI Express 2.0 x4 interface (at x2 bandwidth)
  • Compatible with PCI Express x4, x8, and x16 slots
  • Windows 8, 8.1 and 7 (32/64-bit editions)
  • Supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost
  • Dimensions: 7.3 x 7.9cm
  • One Type-C 10Gbit/s USB 3.1 port
  • PCI Express 2.0 x4 interface (at x2 bandwidth)
  • Compatible with PCI Express x4, x8, and x16 slots
  • Windows 8, 8.1 and 7 (32/64-bit editions)
  • Supports ASUS USB 3.1 Boost
  • Dimensions: 7.3 x 7.9cm
ASUS USB 3.1 motherboard line-up*
    Compatible with ASUS USB 3.1 Card (both Type-A and Type-C card). Update to latest BIOS required.USB 3.1 integrated or
USB 3.1 Type-A Card (Dual) bundled
X99Rampage V Extreme/U3.1Yes
(BIOS 0211)
Yes
(bundled with Type-A card)
Rampage V ExtremeYes
(BIOS 0211)
 
X99-Deluxe/U3.1Yes
(BIOS 0211)
Yes
(bundled with Type-A card)
X99-DeluxeYes
(BIOS 0211)
 
X99-Pro/USB3.1YesYes
X99-ProYes 
X99-SYes 
X99-A/USB3.1(Transfer Express)YesYes
X99-A/USB3.1YesYes
X99-AYes 
Sabertooth X99Yes 
X99-E WS/USB3.1YesYes
X99-E WSYes 
X99-WS/IPMIYes 
Z97Z97-Deluxe(NFC & WLC)Yes 
Z97-Deluxe/USB3.1YesYes
Z97-DeluxeYes 
Z97-Pro(Wi-Fi ac)/USB3.1YesYes
Z97-Pro(Wi-Fi ac)Yes 
Z97-ProYes 
Z97-A/USB3.1  YesYes
Z97-AYes 
Z97-ARYes 
Z97-CYes 
Z97-E/USB3.1  YesYes
Z97-EYes 
Z97-K/USB3.1YesYes
Z97-K R2.0Yes 
Z97-KYes 
Z97-PYes 
Z97M-PlusYes 
Sabertooth Z97 Mark 1/USB3.1YesYes
Sabertooth Z97 Mark 1Yes 
Sabertooth Z97 Mark SYes 
Sabertooth Z97 Mark 2Yes 
Gryphon Z97Yes 
Gryphon Z97(Armor Edition)Yes 
Maximus VII Formula/Watch DogsYes 
Maximus VII FormulaYes 
Maximus VII HeroYes 
Maximus VII Hero/ACUYes 
Maximus VII GeneYes 
Maximus VII RangerYes 
Maximus VII ImpactYes 
Z97-PRO GamerYes 
Z97-WSYes 
B85B85M-G Plus/USB3.1YesYes
B85-Plus/USB3.1YesYes
1. Specifications, content and product availability are all subject to change without notice and may differ from country to country. Actual performance may vary depending on applications, usage, environment and other factors.
*Availability may vary by region
Full specifications are available at www.asus.com
###
About ASUS
ASUS is a worldwide top-three consumer notebook vendor and maker of the world’s best-selling, most award-winning, motherboards. A leading enterprise in the new digital era, ASUS designs and manufactures products that perfectly meet the needs of today’s digital home and office, with a broad portfolio that includes motherboards, graphics cards, optical drives, displays, desktop and all-in-one PCs, notebooks, netbooks, servers, multimedia devices, wireless solutions, networking devices, tablets and smartphones. Driven by innovation and committed to quality, ASUS won 4,256 awards in 2013 and is widely credited with revolutionizing the PC industry with its Eee PC™. ASUS has more than 12,500 employees around the globe with a world-class R&D team of 3,800 engineers. Company revenue for 2012 was approximately US$14 billion. 


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Saturday, February 21, 2015

OPPO Releases HA-2 Portable Headphone Amplifier and DAC

OPPO Releases HA-2 Portable Headphone Amplifier and DAC

High-Resolution Audio Meets Style and Design
 
MOUNTAIN VIEW, California – February 20, 2015 – Adding a new member to its award-winning personal audio product portfolio, OPPO Digital (www.oppodigital.com) released the HA-2 portable headphone amplifier and DAC today.
 
The HA-2 is an elegant yet sophisticated portable headphone amplifier with built-in rechargeable battery. It is engineered to enhance music playback from mobile phones and portable music players. Aesthetically, the HA-2 does not look like a typical or generic electronic device. Its genuine leather casing with contrast stitching and beveled aluminum edges are eye-catching and cannot be confused with any other product. Its fit and finish will instill a sense of pride when using the product.
 
Featuring hybrid class AB amplification and a USB DAC, the HA-2 offers high performance digital-to-analog conversion for Apple’s iPhone/iPod products, a wide range of Android devices, PC and Mac computers. The HA-2 may be conveniently used to charge mobile devices on-the-go and itself can be efficiently charged in 30 minutes. Headphones, from very sensitive In-Ear Monitors to the most power-hungry Over-the-Ears, can all benefit from the HA-2’s excellent performance and powerful amplification.
 
Key features of the HA-2 include:
 
  • Ultra-slim Design - Stacking the HA-2 on top of some smartphone models is often still thinner than other portable headphone amplifier models alone.
  • ESS Sabre32 Reference DAC - ES9018-K2M DAC chip delivers high-resolution performance with extremely low noise and distortion.
  • High-Resolution Audio – The HA-2 supports PCM audio up to 384 kHz / 32-bit, DSD audio up to 12 MHz (DSD256 or DSD4x). No Camera Connection Kit required for high-resolution playback from iOS devices.
  • Multiple Devices Support –The HA-2 supports multiple device types for digital-to-analog conversion via USB: iPod / iPhone / iPad, smartphones with USB OTG feature, PC and Mac computers.
  • Rapid Charging – The HA-2’s internal battery can be quickly charged in about 30 minutes with the patented rapid charger.
  • Mobile Power Bank - The HA-2 functions as an external battery pack to charge mobile devices.
 
With smartphone use increasing all the time, users are often carrying a device that is capable of storing high quality audio files. The HA-2 is a very mobile-centric portable headphone amplifier and DAC that pairs exceptionally well with iOS and Android devices, and it can offer a significant improvement in sound quality over the amplification and DAC available in the mobile device itself, without adding excessive bulk and weight so as to make the combination inconvenient.
 
The HA-2 offers two USB DAC input ports - one for Apple’s iPhone/iPod, and the other for Android devices, PC and Mac computers. A 3.5 mm input works with the remaining portable music players that do not have a USB-compatible digital output. There are two gain level settings. The High Gain mode is capable of driving large power-hungry headphones, delivering up to 300 mW into 16-Ohm headphones. The Low Gain mode is intended for sensitive In-Ear Monitor type earphones. For users who like a bit more punch and impact with their music, the HA-2 offers a Bass Boost function that is implemented purely with analog audio circuits.
 
With its excellent sound quality, elegant style and mobile-friendly features, OPPO HA-2 headphone amplifier is a great companion to any smartphone or portable music player for enjoying high resolution music on the go. The HA-2 is available now in limited supply from OPPO Digital’s web site at a retail price of $299.
 
* Trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners.
 
###
 
Contact Information
 
OPPO Digital, Inc. 
2629 Terminal Blvd, Suite B 
Mountain View CA 94043 
Tel: (650) 961-1118
Fax: (650) 961-1119 
www.oppodigital.com


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Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping 9-Inch Restyle Dash Systems for Ram Trucks and Toyota Tundra

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping 9-Inch Restyle Dash Systems for Ram Trucks and Toyota Tundra
Vehicle specific systems now available for trucks from four major automakers

Torrance, Calif. (Feb. 17, 2015) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. is now shipping two new X009 Restyle Dash Systems.  The new models are the X009-RAM for select Ram trucks and the X009-TND for the Toyota Tundra, and both have been Alpine engineered for functional and cosmetic integration with the trucks.

The Alpine Restyle dash systems are based on the X009, a multi-function system with audio, video and navigation features and a distinctive 9-inch touch screen.  Each system is paired with a vehicle specific dash kit that matches the color, finish and shape of the factory dash.  The kits feature back-lit hard keys which replace the factory radio knobs and match the instrument cluster lighting.  Each system consists of the X009, matching dash kit and all necessary accessories for plug-and-play installation including an Alpine/vehicle specific harness, antenna adapter (if necessary) and a two-way, data driven vehicle interface module.

“Alpine Restyle launched in 2014 and we are really gaining traction with the addition of models for Ram trucks and the Toyota Tundra,” said Steve Crawford, vice president and general manager, aftermarket business unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.  “The X009 is a unique system that offers aftermarket features with factory look installation for the ultimate truck upgrade.”

The X009-RAM is compatible with select 2013-up Ram trucks (not compatible with models that have the factory 8.4-inch screen).  The X009-TND is compatible with 2007-2013 Toyota Tundra trucks.  The new models join the three currently available X009 systems: X009-FD1, for select Ford F-150 trucks with the base radio system; X009-GM, for lower dash radio styles on select 2007-2013 GM trucks and 2007-2014 GM SUVs; and X009-U, for custom installations.  Coming this spring are models for 2007-2013 GM full size trucks with upper dash radio (X009-GM2), select 2013-2014 Ford F-150 trucks with MyFord® 4.2-inch screen (X009-FD2) and 2011-up Jeep Wrangler (X009-WRA).

In total, the Alpine Restyle truck and SUV dash systems will be compatible with over eight million vehicles available from the applicable makes, models and years.

Included iDatalink® Maestro Module
The X009-RAM and X009-TND retain many factory vehicle controls and features through the included iDatalink® Maestro module.  Customized vehicle information (battery voltage display, check engine codes, etc.) can be viewed on the screen.  Examples of factory features that can be retained include steering wheel controls and premium audio amplifier integration (retained features and customized vehicle information vary by vehicle model).

Robust Feature Set
The X009-RAM and X009-TND come with a robust set of features, including:
·        Audio features:  Audio sources include HD Radio™ technology, Pandora internet radio control from iPhone® and Android™ smartphones and “Made for iPod and iPhone” compatibility with USB access.  The models are also SiriusXM-Ready™ when used with the SiriusXM SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit (sold separately, subscription required).
·        Video and Navigation Features:  The X009 Restyle dash systems have a full WVGA high-resolution screen and an HDMI input for connectivity to HDMI-enabled mobile devices (separate adapter required).  The Dual Zone video control lets drivers use a source in the dash while the back seat passengers enjoy a separate video on the rear seat screen (optional screen sold separately).  Alpine’s proprietary navigation interface includes pre-loaded maps of the United States, Canada and more than seven million Points of Interest (POIs).  Main landmarks, buildings and terrain details for major cities are depicted in 3D and driving directions are delivered through text-to-speech announcements.  The system comes with free lifetime HERE Traffic RDS service.
·        Bluetooth® Wireless Technology:  The X009 comes with Alpine’s advanced Bluetooth® wireless technology.  Ease-of-use features include secure simple pairing (SSP); phone battery, cellular signal level and received message icons; and call waiting.  The MediaXpander® technology provides improved sound quality for audio streaming.
·        Alpine TuneIt® App for Sound Tuning:  The X009 dash systems are compatible with the free Alpine TuneIt® App which provides customized sound tuning through an iPhone or Android smartphone.  The app allows for vehicle specific adjustments to sound settings (like Time Correction, Parametric EQ and Crossover), or users can choose from the pre-made settings in the database.  The app also notifies users of incoming activity on their Facebook wall through an on-screen pop-up notice.  A separate version of the app with a text-to-speech (TTS) feature is available for $3.99, which allows users to have the message read back via text-to-speech.  
·        “My Favorites” Customizable Settings:  The My Favorites feature lets two individual users customize quick-access screens with up to 80 shortcuts to their most used features.  Shortcuts can be created from audio sources, navigation commands and phone settings.
·        Drive Assist Compatibility:  The X009-RAM and X009-TND are compatible with Alpine’s front and rear view camera systems and have a visual parking guide which overlays markers onto the rear view image when it’s projected on the in-dash screen.

Availability
The X009-RAM and X009-TND are available now, visit www.alpine-usa.com for a store locator.  Other X009 models already available are the X009-GM (for select GM trucks and SUVs, SRI $3,000), X009-FD1 (for select Ford F-150, SRI $3,000) and the X009U (for custom installations, SRI $2,700).  The X009-FD2, X009-GM2 and X009-WRA will be available this Spring.

X009-RAM
9-inch Restyle Dash System for select Ram trucks (2013-up; not compatible with factory 8.4-inch screen equipped models)
·        9-inch WVGA touch screen
·        Audio, video and navigation feature set
·        Superior quality hard keys that match the factory dash lighting
·        Alpine TuneIt® App integration
·        My Favorites feature offers up to 80 shortcut soft keys
·        HD Radio™ receiver built-in
·        SiriusXM-Ready™ (SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit sold separately, SiriusXM subscription required)
·        BT Plus Bluetooth® wireless technology with audio streaming
·        Free lifetime HERE Traffic RDS
·        HDMI input
·        Dual Zone video control for separate front and rear video sources
·        Retains select factory installed features with included iDatalink® Maestro Module:
·        Steering wheel controls
·        Premium audio amplifiers
·        Rear view camera
·        Vehicle Settings menu
·        Visual parking assist with existing or aftermarket rearview camera display
·        On-screen climate display
·        On-screen vehicle information
·        Tire pressure display
·        Battery voltage display
·        Door status
·        Read/Reset check engine codes
·        User customizable gauges
·        SRI: $3,400

X009-TND
9-inch Restyle Dash System for Toyota Tundra trucks (2007-2013)
·        9-inch WVGA touch screen
·        Audio, video and navigation feature set
·        Superior quality hard keys that match the factory dash lighting
·        Alpine TuneIt® App integration
·        My Favorites feature offers up to 80 shortcut soft keys
·        HD Radio™ receiver built-in
·        SiriusXM-Ready™ (SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit sold separately, SiriusXM subscription required)
·        BT Plus Bluetooth® wireless technology with audio streaming
·        Free lifetime HERE Traffic RDS
·        HDMI input
·        Dual Zone video control for separate front and rear video sources
·        Retains select factory installed features with included iDatalink® Maestro Module:
·        Factory SiriusXM tuner integration
·        Steering wheel controls
·        Media player
·        Premium audio amplifier integration
·        On-screen vehicle information
·        Battery voltage display
·        Door status
·        Read/Reset check engine codes
·        User customizable gauges
·        SRI: $3,300
#  #  #


Notice: Product information is based upon current information at the time of press, but cannot be guaranteed. All designs, features, specifications and delivery dates are subject to change without notice.

TuneIt and MediaXpander are registered trademarks of Alpine Electronics, Inc. PANDORA, the PANDORA logo, and the Pandora trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pandora Media, Inc., used with permission.  Sirius, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries. “HD Radio” is a trademark of iBiquity Digital Corporation. iPod®, iPhone®, and Made for iPod® and iPhone® are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Alpine Electronics, Inc. is under license. Android is a trademark of Google Inc. iDatalink is a trademark of Automotive Data Solutions, Inc.  Chevrolet and GMC are registered trademark of General Motors Corporation. Ford, F-150 and MyFord® are registered trademarks of Ford Motors Corporation. Ram and Jeep are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC. Toyota and Tundra are registered trademarks of Toyota Motor Corporation. HERE is a registered trademark of HERE Global B.V. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

About Alpine Electronics

Alpine Electronics is an automotive electronics manufacturer that provides consumers and leading auto makers with audio, video, navigation and driver assistance products.  The company specializes in system integration solutions with innovative vehicle entertainment and information technologies.

Alpine’s R&D and manufacturing facilities in Japan, China, Europe and North America ensure that all products address the real world requirements of drivers in each market.  The company is committed to developing safe, comfortable and eco-friendly automotive electronics products.

For more information about Alpine’s aftermarket products, visit www.alpine-usa.com.  Reach us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AlpineElectronics and Twitter: http://twitter.com/alpineusa


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Sunday, February 8, 2015

GunVault NanoVault Nano 100 Storage Safe Review

Theft happens.  It can be either a GPS stolen out of your car that was mounted on your dash, an ipod that you had sitting on your car seat.  It could also be by the hands of some teenagers that broke into your house looking for items of value for a quick grab and run.  You never know when something like this can happen.  And a little bit of protection can go a long way.  Enter the NanoVault Nano 100 by GunVault.


Features and specs:



NV100 SPECIFICATIONS

NV 100NV 100NV 300NV 300NV 200NV 200
Gauge201818
Exterior Product Dimensions
HxWxD (inc. keypad and lock)
1½" x 6" x 8¼"1¾" x 6½" x 9½"1½" x 6½" x 9½"
Interior Product Dimensions1½" x 5¾" x 8" 1½" x 6¼" x 9¼" 1½" x 6¼" x 9¼"
Weight Of Item233
Hold # of Unique FingerprintsN/A N/A N/A
# of User-Selectable Access CodesN/AN/AN/A
Mountable?YesYesYes
Protective Foam Liner?YesYesYes
Spring Loaded Door?NoNoNo
Audio Low Battery Warning?NoNoNo
LED Low Battery Warning?NoNoNo
Interior Courtesy Light?NoNoNo
Motion Detector With Audio Alarm?NoNoNo
Tamper Indicator?NoNoNo
Computer Block Access After
Repeated Invalid Entries?
NoNoNo
Security Cable Included?YesYesYes
Backup Override Key?YesNoYes
1,500 Lb Security Cable Usable?NoNoNo
External AC Power Supply?NoNoNo
Battery Type & QuantityN/AN/AN/A
Batteries Included?NoNoNo
California DOJ Approved?NoNoNo
  • Easy to operate Key Lock System
  • 20 Gauge steel construction
  • 1.25" thick memory foam interior
  • Compact size allows storage virtually anywhere
  • Includes a 1,500 lb tested security cable




The Nano 100 is part of the Nano Series of products, and is the entry level of that series, with an MSRP of only $36.99.  The build quality is good as is the quality of materials used.  It is mostly made of 20 gauge steel with a black finish.  Fit and finish was also very good.  There is not a lot to it other than the steel used, and the locking mechanism.  The locking mechanism was also well made for the price.  Overall fit and finish was very good.  And this is just their entry level product.

Using the Nano 100 was very easy.  And it is quite versatile.  It can be used in the home, and bolted down with the included security cable.  It can also be used in your car and bolted down there as well.  I will admit that the included security cable is not very thick.  A large wire cutter would take care of it in short order.  But it's not designed for protection against a professional thief.  It does have a tight fit when it is locked, to guard against being pried open.  And as you can see it is big enough to hold a ipod, external hard drive or gps, and a little more.  Or a handgun and couple other small items.

All in all I would say the Nano 100 is a great product, especially for the price.  It doesn't do a whole lot, but it doesn't claim too either.  It gives a level of protection that can be very helpful in a small and portable package.  And for many, that is all that is needed.  Whether you are looking for something small and basic like the Nano 100, something fancier with Biometrics, or larger, GunVault has something for you.  For more info and complete specs, check out their website at www.gunvault.com



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