Sunday, June 27, 2021

Panasonic DP-UB9000 Reference Class THX Certified Streaming 4K Player Review

If you are looking for home theater gear, you may be like most people who are stuck at home, quarantined during the pandemic. You realized that you could use some better gear. Maybe you made the jump to 4k, but are working on now getting content. Or maybe you have a cheap 4k player and are now looking to upgrade to a quality 4k player. Either way, the Panasonic DP-UB9000 could be just for you.

 
Features and specs:

Our Highest Level of Home Entertainment

Reference class quality is here with the DP-UB9000. Our HCX (Hollywood Cinema Experience) processor optimizes color, clarity and detail in 4K/HDR formats like HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. The result is a exciting array of highest quality video and audio options from 4K UHD Blu-ray discs to 4K upscaling, VOD 4K streaming, voice assist and more.

 

Ultimate Picture Quality

Panasonic's precision Ultra HD Blu-ray player supports 4K/HDR formats like next-generation HDR10+TM dynamic metadata, HDR10, the standard HDR format for films and UHD Blu-ray discs, as well as Dolby VisionTM and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG).

 

HCX Processor

Panasonic's Hollywood Cinema Experience processor enables optimum HDR processing with precise chroma processing, a new HDR Optimizer, HDR to SDR Conversion and HDR adjustment for a variety of viewing conditions.

 

Real Life Image Quality

Panasonic's image processing technologies produce HDR images with higher-than-ever definition. From one scene to the next, mapping is applied to instantly adjust brightness levels for true-to-life color and detail in all your 4K/HDR content.

 

4K Direct Chroma Upscaling

By upconverting Full-HD chrominance and luminance signals directly into 4K signals, Panasonic's upscaling technologies produce 4K images with natural textures and incredible depth. (To fully enjoy 4K Upscaling a 4K/UHD TV is required.)

 

Pure Audio Performance

The UB9000 provides analog audio circuits that include a dedicated audio power supply, high-performance D/A converter and XLR balanced. The player's stylish alumite-treated aluminum chassis is designed for high rigidity and a lower center of gravity to reduce vibration for high sound quality.

 

Exceptional Clarity

192-kHz/32-bit 4-DAC supports high-resolution audio to reveal full, rich sounds and delicate tones of musical instruments, and even the breathing of vocal performances. Twin HDMI terminals separate and transmit video and audio signals for higher, more satisfying sound quality.

 

Enhanced Purity

HDMI Low Clock Jitter Process faithfully reproduces the original sound recorded onto your Blu-ray™ discs and DVDs for exceptional audio no matter which brand of TV or AV receiver you have.

 

Theatre-Level Quality

The THX certified DP-UB9000 faithfully reproduces the finely nuanced colors and rich, detailed images that the film creator intended, and provides lifelike surround sound for theatre quality entertainment at home. *THX and the THX logo are trademarks of THX Ltd., registered in the United States and other countries.

 

Studio Master Sound

Connect to your home audio system to enjoy music sources equivalent to true studio master quality. In addition to WAV/FLAC/MP3/AAC/WMA/AIFF formats, DSD (5.6 MHz/2.8 MHz/11.2MHz) and ALAC music files can be faithfully reproduced for Hi-Res sound.

 

Versatile Audio Outputs

Outputs include twin HDMI, a 7.1 channel and separate 2 channel equipped with a balanced XLR output terminal in addition to the RCA terminal, and optical audio.

 

4K VOD Streaming for NETFLIX/ YouTube/Prime

YouTube, NETFLIX and Amazon Prime streaming enhances your 4K content choices. These high-definition internet video signals are processed by Panasonic's 4K High-Precision Chroma Processor to give you crisp, beautiful images

 

Works with Alexa and Google Assistant

Panasonic's DP-UB9000 conveniently supports voice assist with Amazon Alexa or the Google Assistant.

 

The Panasonic DP-UB9000 came in a great looking color printed box, with photos and specs of the player. Opening the box revealed a well-protected player, held in place by Styrofoam. Materials used in the construction was almost all metal, with some plastic in the remote. Quality of materials used was excellent, as was the fit and finish. Also found was the power cord, remote, and manual.

 



I love the design of the Panasonic DP-UB9000. The first thing that stood out to me was that this thing is built like a tank! There are a lot of Oppo Digital fans out there among audiophiles and videophiles. I am one of them. Sadly, Oppo Digital is long gone as far as providing new players. There’s been talk about this being the new Oppo Digital. Seeing the build quality of the Panasonic DP-UB9000, it looks even better! It can’t however fully replace my old Oppo player as it doesn’t support DVD-Audio and SACD. But other than that, I’m impressed so far.

 

The rest of the design of the Panasonic DP-UB9000 is killer. Not only is the front panel brushed aluminum, but so are both sides. It’s front is simplistic with just the display, power and navigation buttons, and single USB slot. The rear has all of the connections you would ever need, with HDMI out, audio only HDMI out, network connection, USB, optical, coaxial, 7.1 analog audio out, even stereo XLR outputs. Panasonic also did things right on the inside of the chassis, with separate power supplies for the audio and video. The chassis itself features a dual layer design for rigidity to keep noise and vibration low.

 

The Panasonic DP-UB9000 is also very projector friendly. So, if you use a front projector in your home theater, this player is worth a serious look. Projectors don’t have the brightness needed to fully take advantage of HDR. But thanks to Panasonic’s 2nd generation HCX (Hollywood Cinema Experience) Processor, it uses tone-mapping to extract the best possible picture out of your projector. Now that we know it has the build quality and features, let’s see how it looks and sounds.

 

To begin the setup, I was happy to see that the remote was very well laid out, and easy to use…I especially liked the fact that the buttons can light up, which is a necessity in a dark room. The home screen was also very simply laid out. Here you can select from videos, music, photos, home network, network service and set-up. And doing the initial set-up through the set-up screen, as well as connecting the player on Vue, was simple to follow in the Network Service Screens. Now that it’s set-up, let’s see how well it works.

 

For viewing, I turned to a few quality movies, The Great Wall, Wonder Woman, and Avengers: Infinity War. No matter which movie I watched or which scene, they all appeared true to the reference source. And the eye candy that the Panasonic DP-UB9000 provided satisfies all of the expectations for the 4k format. Fine details were resolved excellently. Shadow details were also excellent. Colors were vivid without being overly saturated. And the depth of image…as I stated before, it all translates to pure eye candy!

 

In the Great Wall, one of my favorite scenes is when they are at the Imperial City. The towers have stained glass windows, with all the colors of the rainbow. When the light from outside shines through the glass, it’s a visual feast. In Wonder Woman, when she is standing at the dock with her mom the queen, you can see the details of the individual strands of the fur in her coat, as well as her hair. And the fine details revealed in the queen’s armor, was exquisite. In Avengers: Infinity War, there were also a great number of moments that were eye candy. When Thor shows up at Wakanda via the Bifrost, the rainbow colors of the Bifrost was excellent, subtle, but well saturated. When Wanda is using her red powers to destroy the mind stone in Vision’s head, her powers are red and extremely bright and vivid yet controlled and not overly exposed. Unfortunately, the details in the photos don’t do justice to what was actually seen on screen.

 

The Panasonic DP-UB9000 does an excellent job on checking off the boxes for a premium 4k player. There are built-in streaming apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon video. It’s even THX certified. The only thing missing for it being the Holy Grail of 4k players, is SACD and DVD-Audio support. Based on its design features, quality and performance, the Panasonic DP-UB9000 has earned our Editor’s Choice Award. For more info and complete specs, check out their website at www.panasonic.com.

Reference Gear:  Onkyo TX-RZ920 Receiver, Outlaw Audio Model 7000X Amplifier, Emotiva BasX A-500 Amplifier, Helios AS-P603W Smart Power Surge and Line Conditioner,  Panasonic DP-UB9000 4K Player, RBH Sound SI-663R Signature Reference Series In-Wall Speakers, RBH Sound SI-760R Signature Reference Series In-Wall Speakers, RBH Sound SI-615 Signature In-Ceiling Speakers, RBH Sound SI-1212 In-Ceiling/In-Floor Subwoofer with DA-1802DSP Subwoofer Amplifier, Sony Bravia Front Projector, Elite Screens fixed mount screen.



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Friday, June 18, 2021

HYPER Launches World’s 1st USB-C 8K 60Hz / 4K 144Hz HDR HDMI Adapter


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HyperDrive USB-C to 8K 60Hz / 4K 144Hz HDMI Adapter

HYPER® Launches World’s First USB-C 8K 60Hz /

4K 144Hz HDR HDMI Adapter

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Designed for Gamers and Creators who Demand The Highest Quality Video At The Fastest Refresh Rate

June 17, 2021 - FREMONT, California: HYPER®, creator of the world’s most crowdfunded USB-C data hubs and power solutions, today announces the HyperDrive USB-C 8K 60Hz / 4K 144Hz HDMI Adapter. HyperDrive is the world’s first USB-C 4K 144Hz HDMI adapter that is capable of ultra high definition video with a blazing 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-responsive video playback and gameplay.

The HyperDrive USB-C 8K 60Hz / 4K 144Hz HDMI Adapter is designed for content creators and gamers who want the highest quality video at the fastest refresh rates possible. The premium aluminum enclosure and compact design provide durability and portability for optimal use at home, at work, or on-the-go.

HyperDrive USB-C to 8K 60Hz / 4K 144Hz HDMI Adapter

Product Features

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+ World’s First USB-C 4K 144Hz HDMI Adapter

+ HDMI 2.1 Compatible

+ Ultra High Definition 8K 60Hz or 4K 144Hz Video Output

+ High Refresh Rate 4K 144Hz for

+ Premium Gaming Monitors Precision Milled, Space Gray, Aluminum Enclosure

Compatibility 

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+ Windows PC, Chromebook (Intel 11th Gen Tiger Lake & NVidia and AMD GPU), MacBook (4K60Hz)

HyperDrive USB-C to 8K 60Hz / 4K 144Hz HDMI Adapter
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Pricing & Availability:

HyperDrive USB-C to 8K60Hz / 4K 144Hz HDMI Adapter is now available at HyperShop.com and other retailers for an MSRP of $49.99.  

About HYPER by Sanho Corporation:

Celebrating its 16th year in business, HYPER is a dynamic team headquartered in Silicon Valley, California with offices in Shenzhen, Singapore, and the Netherlands. We specialize in delivering award-winning, cutting edge IT & mobile accessories with a focus on connectivity and power solutions for consumer and enterprise.

HYPER is guided by its promise of GET MORE. Delivering more ports, more power, and more connectivity, which in turn delivers more quality time with family and friends, more experiences, and more memories to every HYPER customer around the world.


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Monday, June 14, 2021

Harman/Kardon Citation 100 Smart Speaker Review

Homes are getting smarter, thanks to our smart devices. Even our speakers are getting smart with extra functionality. And if you are looking for a speaker, you will want to turn to a company that has a lot of experience as well as a great reputation for amazing sound. Harman Kardon is a great example of this. Up for review is the Harman Kardon Citation 100.

 

Features and specs:

General Specifications

Power Supply:  100-240V – 50/60Hz

Wireless network:  802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5GHz)

2.4G Wi-Fi transmitter frequency range:  2412 – 2472MHz (2.4GHzISM Band, USA 11 Channels, Europe and others 13 Channels)

2.4G Wi-Fi transmitter power:  <20dBm

2.4G Wi-Fi modulation:  DBPSK, DQPSK, CCK, QPSK, BPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM

5G Wi-Fi transmitter power:  <23dBm

5G Wi-Fi modulation:  QPSK, BPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM, 256QAM

5G Wi-Fi transmitter frequency range:  5.15 - 5.35GHz, 5.470 - 5.725GHz, 5.725 - 5.825GHz

Note:  Citation 100 is intended to be used for streaming music. A consumer can stream Bluetooth audio to the speaker. A consumer can connect their speaker to the local Wi-Fi Network and stream music with Google Chromecast. In addition, the speaker will work with Google Home. This product is designed to be instantly on and ready to play music at a moment's notice, therefore, the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection must remain active at all times to ensure proper operation. Citation 100 is in compliance with the European Union energy legislation. Citation 100 complies with European Commission Regulation (EC) No 1275/2008 and (EU) No 801/2013 as a networked equipment with high network availability (HiNA equipment and equipment with HiNA functionality). Power consumption Standby

Audio Specifications

Signal-to-noise ratio:  >80dB

Supported audio formats:  HE-AAC, LC-AAC, MP3, Vorbis, WAV (LPCM), FLAC, Opus

Output power:  50W RMS

Transducer:  1 x 20mm tweeter, 1 x 102mm woofer

Dimensions

Dimensions: (W x H x D)172 x 275 x 163 mm

Weight:  2.7 kg (6lb)

Control and Connection Specifications

Bluetooth® version:  4.2

Bluetooth transmitter frequency range:  2402 – 2480MHz

Bluetooth transmitter power:  <5dBm

Bluetooth transmitter modulation:  GFSK,Ï€/4 DQPSK, 8DPSK


The Harman Kardon Citation 100 came in a great looking color printed box with photos and specs of the speaker. Opening the box revealed a well-protected speaker, held in place by custom molded foam. Materials used in the construction was mostly plastic, with some cloth and metal. Quality of materials used, as well as fit and finish, was excellent. Also included was the power cord and owner’s manual.

 

I really like the design of the Citation 100. For a speaker, it has a separate tweeter and woofer on the front. Then on the back there is a passive radiator for improved bass performance. It may not be true stereo sound since there is only one speaker, but with a separate tweeter, woofer, and passive radiator, you’ll get great sound.

 

That takes us to the next part of the design with it being wireless. Because of this, you can add not only a second one, you can actually add several more. With multiple of these Citation 100’s linked together, you can actually have one in each room, providing whole house sound. And the Citation 100 is only the beginning. There is the whole Citation family from Harman/Kardon. There are the Citation 300 and Citation 500 which are larger version of the Citation 100. There’s also Citation Bar, which is a TV sound bar, and if you like surround sound, there is also the Citation Tower, Citation Surround and Citation Sub. Just add the Citation Bar as the center channel speaker, and you can have a full 5.1 surround sound system with the Citation speakers.

 

The last part of the design is the smart functionality. It’s great being able to play your music from either online, your smartphone, or your home network, but it can do a lot more. You can get hands free help from the Google Assistant. Ask the time, ask the weather, or even a multitude of other facts. And if you have set up your home as a smart home, you can even use it to control your lights, control your temperature as well as other smart devices in your home. Now that we know what it can do, let’s hear how it sounds.

 

The Hu- Sugaan Essena: Vocals were nice and raw with very good texture of the timbre. Drums were nice and dynamic as well as deep and played with good authority. The lute was crisp and clean with good resolution of the bow.

 

Earth, wind and fire – September: Wood blocks had the nice hollow tone of the wood come thru very well, Drums were again nice and dynamic with good depth. Trumpets were really crisp, clean and smooth with the same good resolution of the timbre.

 

Nat King Cole; L-O-V-E: Cymbals were really crisp and clean with great resolution of the sticks on the high hat. Piano sounded natural. Violin had nice smoothness of the strings. Trumpet was nice and dynamic with silky smooth. And of course Nat King Cole’s vocals came out as legendary as they are known for, smoother than Dove chocolate with epic harmonics.

 

For use of it as a smart device, it also did not disappoint. No matter if it was something I wanted to know about the weather, such as temperature or sunset time, I got the answers I was looking for. Any other random information I was looking for from online, it was also able to help me with. And of course with it being linked to my home network, it was also able to control other smart devices in my home, such as lights.

 

I love the Harman/Kardon Citation 100. It’s a great sounding smart speaker. Thanks partly to the built-in passive radiator, it rocks out! The smart functionality was fun and very helpful. And what I also really loved about the Citation 100, is not only does it do a great job with all of this functionality, it also does it with style! The cloth surrounding it does give it a great look and amazing styling. Based on its design, features, quality and performance, the Harmon/Kardon Citation 100 has earned our Highly Recommended Award. Kudos on a great product. For more info and complete specs, check out their website at www.harmankardon.com.




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Tuesday, June 8, 2021

Hollyland’s Solidcom M1: the Next Generation in Wireless Intercoms for Teams


Introducing HOLLYLAND SOLIDCOM M1 | FULL DUPLEX WIRELESS INTERCOM

Solidcom M1 Highlights

 

●      Unique integrated panel antenna in base station

●      Two External FRP antennas

●      High 16K sampling rate and 200Hz-7KHz frequency response

●      Advanced noise canceling algorithms

●      Professional dynamic microphones

●      Paired and ready to use immediately

●      Intuitive setup

●      Rugged design

Hollyland’s Solidcom M1: the Next Generation in Wireless Intercoms for Teams

 

Supports large teams, numerous devices, with crystal clear sound and 1300ft range

Hollyland Logo

Shenzhen, China, June 8, 2021 - Event organizers and media producers searching for a reliable and easy-to-use wireless team communication system can finally stop searching. Hollyland’s Solidcom M1 is the new generation 1.9GHz full-duplex professional wireless intercom system that supports eight-channel beltpack simultaneous communication plus cascaded connection of multiple additional devices.

 

The M1 system is ready-to-go right out of the box and boasts powerful noise cancellation and broadcast-quality audio. With a host of industry-first innovative features, Solidcom M1 is now the go-to wireless communications choice for micro-mid events with a capacity from 100 to 1000 guests, including church events, electronic field production, exhibitions, concerts, etc. 

Enable images or just imagine how amazing the Hollyland Solidcom M1 looks like..

Instant 1300ft wireless intercom system with clear sound

In an industry first, the Solidcom M1 integrates a panel antenna into the base station – providing an instant out-of-the-box communications solution at unobstructed venues, such as church events and concerts. The built-in panel antenna alone supports a range of up to 1300ft (400m) in front of the base station and 160ft (50m) behind. Attaching the two included external FRP antennas provides reliable 360° transmission in a radius of about 985ft (300m) – ideal for large-scale spaces and obstructed venues, including sports events and exhibitions.

 

The M1 system provides amazingly clear broadcast-level audio no matter how intrusive the background noise is, thanks to Hollyland’s own noise-cancellation algorithms, high 16KHz sampling rate, professional dynamic microphones, and super-wide 200Hz-7KHz frequency response. The included LEMO headsets feature sidetone, reducing user fatigue and greatly improving voice intelligibility. Your whole team will be able to communicate unimpeded, with no confusion about the speaker’s identity or tone of voice, even during a rock concert.

 

Easy single-tap grouping and versatile cascading

With Solidcom M1, setting up groups for team members such as lighting crew, camera crew, or PAs is intuitive: Simply select the number of each beltpack in the group. Up to three groups can be created and managed in seconds by using the base station, Hollyland app, or private webpage.

 

The base station can be cascade-connected to multiple sets of audio equipment, including most common legacy intercom systems from other manufacturers, simply by connecting them with a standard network cable or XLR cable. There are four different interface connectors – 2W XLR, 4W RJ45, POE/LAN (Power Over Ethernet) power supply, and cascading interfaces.

 

Each standard Solidcom M1 comes with eight beltpacks, and there is also a package with four beltpacks for micro-sized events. Simultaneous group calls for 16 people in three groups are possible with two cascaded M1 sets. With a standard network cable of 328ft (100m) for cascading, the M1 is perfect for almost any event.

 

Rugged but intuitive beltpack and headset design

The beltpacks are rugged, yet lightweight and comfortable to hold, with a detachable, replaceable antenna to enhance durability and an HD LCD screen to show status at a glance. The three function buttons on the front of the beltpack are ergonomically designed and of different shapes to prevent misclicking, even in darkness and high-pressure situations.

 

Each Solidcom M1 set includes professional LEMO headsets with the intuitive microphone on/off control via raising or lowering the mic boom. The standard 3.5mm socket on the beltpack supports third-party headsets.

 

Dual batteries for continuous 24 hour power

Each beltpack holds two removable Li-ion batteries, which can be charged independently in only 2.5 hours, and each battery provides six hours of runtime, ensuring uninterrupted operation all day long. Likewise, the base station has a dual NP-F battery plate, plus a POE power supply port, guaranteeing a continuous, uninterrupted power supply.

 

Learn More:http://www.hollyland-tech.com/products/detail-50.html

MSRP: USD 6,999 ex.VAT / CAD 9,379 inc. VAT

 

Where to buy

B&H(US): https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1642297-REG/

hollyland_hl_solidcom_m1_8b_solidcom_m1_full_duplex_wireless.html

AV Shop(Canada): https://www.avshop.ca/index.php?main_page=

advanced_search_result&search_in_description=0&zenid=

2a8d631ee94df98fa6db2aa23ba21d92&keyword=solidcom

Website Dealer List: https://www.hollyland-tech.com/where-to-buy/

 

Hollyland Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HollylandTech

Hollyland Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollylandtech

 

ABOUT HOLLYLAND TECHNOLOGY

Shenzhen Hollyland Technology Co., Ltd. ('Hollyland' or 'Hollyland Technology') empowers global customers with professional solutions that are expressly designed for wireless data, audio and video transmission, and wireless intercom solutions – since 2013.

Rapidly becoming the most competitive global wireless device and solution provider, all Hollyland’s technological advancements, innovations, and services are dedicated to better facilitating collaboration in any professional setting where real-time audio and video transmission or communication are required. We invest over 25% of annual revenue in new project development.

We serve many markets, including film-making, television shooting, video production, broadcast, live streaming, live events, and exhibitions. Our products have consistently met production and communication requirements of varying sizes and complexity. For more information, visit https://www.hollyland-tech.com

Solidcom M1
 
Solidcom M1
 
Solidcom M1
 
Solidcom M1


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