Paradigm’s New Millenia LP Trio Soundbar Elevates Sound for Flat Panel Televisions

Paradigm’s New Millenia LP Trio Soundbar Elevates Sound for Flat Panel Televisions

With left, center and right channels combined into a single, 48-inch cabinet, Paradigm’s new passive soundbar is a perfect complement to any flat panel and an ideal match to most 55-inch televisions.  

CEDIA 2019 – Denver, Colorado – September 12, 2019  – Paradigm Electronics Inc., a global leader in speaker design and manufacturing, is pleased to announce the Millenia LP Trio 3-channel passive soundbar. Measuring less than 2-inches deep when installed, this ultra-thin speaker offers sophisticated state-of-the-art Paradigm reference technology wrapped in a sleek lifestyle design to complement flat-panel televisions.

The Millenia LP Trio features three S-PAL aluminum dome tweeters with patented PPA™ (Perforated Phase Alignment) lens technology and six anodized aluminum unibody cone bass/midrange drivers. The rigid, mineral-filled ABS cabinet is sealed and features three sets of low-profile push style binding posts. The speaker’s frequency response is 160–21,000 Hz (115 Hz DIN). Ideal for on-wall applications, Millenia LP Trio includes a low profile wall-mount bracket. For freestanding configurations, two L brackets with adjustable feet are included to allow the speaker to sit on a shelf. A magnetically attached black grille, polished black accents, and brushed black aluminum faceplate give the Millenia LP Trio an understated look that belies the science and engineering within.

Millenia LP Trio’s high-frequency drivers feature:

·        Patented PPA (Perforated Phase Alignment) lenses that smooth the speaker’s extended high-frequency response for incredible detail and widen sound radiation for deep and wide sound stage

·        S-PAL satin-anodized pure-aluminum domes

·        High-power apical formers

·        Advanced motor structures with extruded aluminum heat sinks 

Millenia LP Trio’s  bass/midrange drivers feature:

·        High-performance S-PAL satin-anodized aluminum unibody bass/midrange cones that deliver clean and clear sound by moving resonances out of the driver’s passband

·        Performance-optimized nitrile-butadiene rubber surrounds 

·        Nomex spiders

·        High-power apical formers

·        A high-performance motor assembly that includes 1.5-inch high-temperature aluminum voice coils and powerful neodymium magnets

·        Steel heat fin baskets 

The Millenia LP Trio ships in early November 2019 and retails for $999/each (US) and $1,199/each (CAD).

For more information, please visit:

https://www.paradigm.com/en/overview/series/millenia-series

Metra Car Stereo Installation Components

When it comes to upgrading your car stereo, there’s a lot more to it than just getting a new radio. You’ll need to get it to fit in your specific vehicle. There’s also the speakers and wiring to consider. Tools to do the work, if you’re doing it yourself, will also be needed. There’s several aspects to consider when upgrading your car stereo. And one company with a ton of experience, as well as all of the accessories needed, is Metra.

All car dashes are different. Getting a new radio or deck installed is only part of the job. You’ll also want it to look good once the job is done. So you will need a dash kit that will integrate perfectly with your particular make and model of vehicle. Metra makes the dash kit for our vehicle, more than likely. And you will also need a wiring harness, and vehicle integration like steering wheel controls. Metra provides those too.

 

If you have an amp, either for a subwoofer or to power your door speakers, you will need to get the signal from your deck to the amplifier. You’ll need some RCA cables for that. Not all RCA cables are created equal. You will want to maintain a strong signal from your deck to your amp. You’ll want to maintain a clean signal as well. And of course you will need to have a secure connection with the cables. T-Spec is their brand under their corporate umbrella that provides cables. T-Spec just made a big leap forward in quality with their new V16! Connectors are excellent quality metal with gold plated copper ties for the best signal transfer. The connections also look to hold them in place. The 26 gauge solid copper core is also silver plated to provide the best quality signal to your amp. And to keep the signal clean from outside electrical interference, there is braided tin copper, and aluminum faced mylar foil, and I like the woven copper cable shield.

If you are upgrading your door speakers, more than likely the door panels will need to come off. Metra has a tool kit to help with that. Depending on the size of the factory speaker location, you may need to modify the size. Like if you have a 6.5” speaker to fit in a hole for a 6X9 speaker in the factory speaker location, you’ll need an adapter. Metra has you covered with those adapters.

 

Metra has been in business for over 70 years. No matter what your car stereo needs are, Metra has the products that you need to not only get the best sound out of your stereo system, but to have it look good as well. The quality is also really good, to provide you with years of use. Based on their design, features, quality and performance, the Metra installation products have earned our Highly Recommended Award. And the T-Spec V16 RCA cables have earned our Editor’s Choice Award. For more information and complete specs check out their website at www.metraonline.com.

Fitbit Launches Versa 2

Fitbit Launches Versa 2, a premium, voice-enabled lifestyle smartwatch packed with even more advanced health, fitness and convenience features powered by 5+ days battery life to maximize your day and night

 

SAN FRANCISCO – August 28, 2019 – Fitbit (NYSE: FIT) today announced the launch of Fitbit Versa 2™, the next generation of its best-selling smartwatch, Fitbit Versa™. Versa 2 delivers a new precision-crafted swimproof design, includes innovative sleep features like Sleep Score and smart wake,and is packed with even more advanced health, fitness and smart features to elevate every moment. For next-level convenience, Versa 2 debuts an on-device microphone, which enables Fitbit’s first-ever Alexa smartwatch experience, along with a Spotify app that allows users to control their music and podcasts, and Fitbit Pay^TM . Coupled with even faster performance, thousands of apps and clock faces and a brighter, crisper display with an optional always-on modeVersa 2 is your 24/7 health and wellness companion – now with 5+ days battery life, at the same approachable price as Versa.
 
Better sleep for better, more active days
Sleep is critical to maintaining overall health and wellness, and when surveyed by Fitbit nearly two-thirds (64%) of participants list sleep as a very important health and fitness priority, but one-third of American adults  do not get enough sleep on a regular basis. Fitbit pioneered wearable sleep tracking more than 10 years ago, making information previously only available from a medical professional, widely accessible on the wrist. As a leader in tracked sleep, we have applied learnings from more than 10.5 billion nights of sleep tracked to innovate in this critical area of health, and the latest sleep features will not only help you better understand your sleep, but provide the features to help you improve it:

• Sleep Score: Receive a nightly score within the Fitbit® app for better insight into your sleep quality. Your score is based on heart rate (sleeping and resting), restlessness, time awake and Sleep Stages.
• Smart wake: Coming soon to all Fitbit smartwatches, smart wake uses machine learning to wake you during an optimal time of your sleep cycle, while in light or REM sleep, based on a pre-selected 30-minute interval, so you wake up feeling more refreshed
• Sleep Mode: Simultaneously disable your screen display and silence notifications for a night free of disturbances. Sleep Mode can also be used anytime you don’t want to be interrupted, like during a workout or in a meeting.
• Estimated Oxygen Variation Graph: Coming soon, this graph will provide users with an estimate of the variability of oxygen levels in their bloodstream. The data is derived from a combination of the red and infrared sensors on the back of your device. Being aware of short term variations in the oxygen levels in your bloodstream may indicate variations in your breathing during sleep.

 
In addition to helping millions around the world better understand and improve their sleep, Fitbit continues to deliver the advanced health and fitness features that our users know and love. On Versa 2, these include: automatic activity tracking, PurePulse^® 24/7 heart rate tracking, 15+ goal-based exercise modes, connected GPS and water resistant up to 50 meters.
 
Alexa, can you help me get healthier?
Yes, Alexa can do that on Versa 2! Enabled by Fitbit’s first on-device microphone, Versa 2 is the first Fitbit smartwatch with Alexa Built-in, taking Alexa out of your home and onto your wrist to help support your active lifestyle, like starting a Fitbit Exercise on-wrist, or finding the nearest gym.Alexa responds to voice commands on Versa 2 with discreet, silent on-screen text responses. With just a press of a button, speak into the microphone to use Alexa skills on Versa 2 for added convenience to anywhere you are. Alexa can also help with everyday tasks on-the-go, like setting alarms and timers, checking the local weather and news, controlling your smart home devices,and much more through the sound of your voice.
 
Added convenience and smart features to amplify your day
In addition to Alexa Built-in, Versa 2 comes with even more features to add convenience and ease to your day, like Fitbit Pay, so you can make easy and secure wallet and phone-free payments at retailers and use to access seven transit systems worldwide, including New York MTA OMNY, TransLink in Vancouver, Transport for London (TfL), and Singapore Land Transport Authority.
 
Fitbit is also bringing the Spotify app experience to Versa 2, allowing Spotify Premium subscribers to control music and podcasts so you can find all-day motivation directly from your wrist. The Spotify app lets you control playback on-the-go, change playlists, like songs, and easily switch music output without skipping a beat. The ability to control Spotify adds even more music functionality to Fitbit for you to listen to your music for motivation. Additionally, Versa 2 has the ability to store and play 300+ songs from your personal music libraryand add Deezer playlists.
 
To help simplify your life, Versa 2 offers all the essential smart features like smartphone notifications so you can view app, call, calendar and text notifications right from your wrist. If you have an Android phone, you can also use the new on-device microphone to reply to texts and notifications from the wrist. Plus, you can also choose from nearly 3,000 apps and clock faces to personalize the stats you see and access the apps you need so everything is in one place.

Audeze Introduces LCD-i3 In-Ear Headphone Shipping August 23

AUDEZE ANNOUNCES LCD-i3 IN-EAR HEADPHONE SHIPPING AUGUST 23 Audeze announced today the new LCD-i3, successor to the extremely popular iSINE 20 and “little brother” to the LCD-i4 will be shipping on August 23. The LCD-i3 features sonic improvements over the iSINE 20, with Bluetooth, Lightning, and standard 3.5mm connectivity included. By using the Magnesium housing and grill design of the LCD-i4, the LCD-i3 reduces unwanted resonance and offers improved resolution over the iSINE 20.The LCD-i3 will be priced at $899 USD retail and available at www.audeze.com. Included with each LCD-i3 are the Audeze CIPHER Lightning Cable, Bluetooth Module, and standard 3.5mm cable, providing incredible connection versatility that delivers audiophile sound quality through any device. Featuring a Bluetooth 5.0 chipset with integrated support for AptX and AptX HD, our CIPHER Bluetooth Module delivers low latency 24 bit wireless audio that has been optimized for even the most discerning ear. The brand new Ear Fins are ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable and secure fit within the concha bowl of the ear. For those that prefer the traditional iSINE fit, the redesigned Ear Hooks now curve inward along the back of the ear to ensure superior fit for ears of all shapes and sizes. These new accessories come included with every LCD-i3 and are fully compatible with all existing Audeze in-ear headphones! Current iSINE or LCD-i4 owners interested in purchasing the accessories separately can do so through the iSINE accessory kit. For more information, follow Audeze on Twitter and Instagram, “Like” us on Facebook, subscribe to Audeze on Youtube to see and hear video demonstrations of Audeze products, and visit the website at www.audeze.com.

Sennheiser introduces audiophile Bluetooth in-ear headphones IE 80S BT

The Wireless Audiophile Experience you’ve been Waiting for

Sennheiser introduces audiophile Bluetooth in-ear headphones IE 80S BT Wedemark/Hong Kong, August 12, 2019 – Sennheiser introduces its first audiophile Bluetooth in-ear headphones at the Hong Kong High End Audio Visual Show. The IE 80S BT builds on the sonic achievements of the audio specialist’s much-loved IE 80S ear-canal headphones to create a wireless model that supports hi-res audio for outstanding accuracy and a breathtaking soundstage. As well as offering wireless listening, the new model introduces connected features such as customization via the Sennheiser Smart Control App and one-touch access to virtual assistants such as Siri or Google Assistant. A smart audiophile product that can be enjoyed anywhere, the sleek neckband headphones are the perfect wireless companion for the sophisticated listener on the move. "The IE 80S BT earphones have been meticulously crafted to the most demanding standards,” explains Ronja Harste, Product Manager Audiophile at Sennheiser. “They not only meet Sennheiser’s exacting criteria for a high-end audio product and match the exceptional performance of their wired predecessor, but also offer a real wireless option for refined audiophiles who don’t wish to compromise on sound quality.” A smart audiophile product that can be enjoyed anywhere, the IE 80S BT ear-canal headphones are the perfect wireless companion for the sophisticated listener on the move. Enjoy high-resolution sound on the moveSupport for hi-res codecs including LHDC, aptX HD, and AAC allows the IE 80S BT to process high bit rates so the listener can enjoy uncompressed music formats on par with wired performance. Audiophile sound quality is also guaranteed by a top-of-the-line AKM DAC that lets listeners experience the full performance of Sennheiser's dynamic speaker system which features 10mm drivers and powerful neodymium magnets for brilliant sonic accuracy and clarity. For supreme versatility, support for aptX Low Latency also allows for perfect synchronization with video content. The IE 80S BT has been carefully tuned to deliver the tonally balanced sound characteristic of Sennheiser’s audiophile headphones. However, the listening experience can still be tailored according to taste, either by using the bass adjustment tool to boost the bass on the earphone directly, or using the Sennheiser Smart Control App which provides an intuitive 5-band equalizer. Stay effortlessly connectedCreated for a connected, always-on age, the IE 80S BT offers at-a-touch interaction with all common voice assistants such as Siri and Google Assistant via a dedicated voice assistant access button. Utilizing Sennheiser’s expertise in microphone technology, the headphones feature high-quality microphones with noise reduction technology that are optimally positioned to ensure crystal clear capture of speech for undisturbed telephone calls and communication with voice assistants. Engineered to impressThe latest addition to Sennheiser’s audiophile range, the IE 80S BT earphones display all the meticulous attention to detail, durable high-quality materials, and aesthetic refinement for which the audio specialist is famed. The sleek design also offers exceptional versatility as the Bluetooth neckband component can be detached so the earphones can be used with an optional cable accessory for those occasions when wired listening may be desired. The supplied selection of ear adapters made from silicone, silicone lamellar and ComplyTM Memory Foam in a choice of three sizes each helps to ensure a perfect fit for excellent passive attenuation of external noise. A secure fit is also assured by the flexible ear hooks, which have a soft touch finish to enhance the wearing experience. These ergonomic refinements let the user enjoy the longer listening sessions made possible by the 6-hour battery life in perfect comfort. When on the go, Sennheiser’s IE 80S BT earphones provide the wireless listening experience audiophiles have been waiting for. The IE 80S BT will be available from mid-August for 499 EUR/499.95 USD (MSRP).

Marantz Introduces NR1200 High Performance Stereo Receiver

 

Marantz Introduces NR1200 High Performance Stereo Receiver

 

The Slimline Two-Channel Receiver Delivers Audiophile Performance Alongside Advanced HDMI Connectivity and Streaming Capabilities

 

VISTA, Calif. (August 1, 2019) — Marantz®, the number one Hi-Fi brand in the world[1] and manufacturer of the most musical-sounding audio components, today announced the NR1200 high-performance stereo receiver, engineered to deliver exceptionally detailed, high-fidelity music playback from a slim, elegant chassis while including all of the modern features and connectivity consumers demand.

 

The Marantz NR1200 is an ideal centerpiece for any high-resolution entertainment system. It combines superior audio quality and stable power output to loudspeakers while also offering greater connectivity for audio and video sources. At its heart, the AVR features a newly designed 75 watt per channel (8-ohm, 20Hz – 20kHz, 0.08% THD) amplification section that boasts discreet left and right channel circuitry to optimize performance. The NR1200 has been engineered throughout using carefully selected audio parts ideally suited for two-channel Hi-Fi performance, including custom-designed power capacitors and dual DACs all extensively tuned by Marantz sound masters.

 

“We have seen a resurgence in demand for a high-performance two-channel receiver that enables people to enjoy a superior entertainment experience versus a traditional sound bar without making the leap to a multichannel AVR,” said Emmanuel Millot, Sr. Director Brand Management at Sound United. “The NR1200 delivers Marantz’s sonic signature with all of the power and connectivity options consumers and integrators need to get started. Its slim, sophisticated design makes it the perfect bragging piece for any entertaining space.”

Powerful Two-Channel Discreet Amplification

The amplifier circuit design of the NR1200 features separate, symmetrical left and right power amplifier blocks. The power transformer is wired independently to the circuits of the amplifier, preamplifier, tuner and front display, which improves channel separation, reduces crosstalk and preserves purity of audio. Additionally, the stereo receiver features custom-designed power supply capacitors, carefully selected audio parts that are used for Marantz Hi-Fi amplifiers, double differential DAC design, increasing the dynamic range and improving signal to noise ratio. The NR1200 stereo receiver delivers the musical soundstage and sparkling clarity that enthusiasts expect.

 

Latest HDMI Technology

The NR1200 includes 5 HDMI inputs, each one supporting HDCP 2.3, 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, HLG, High Dynamic Range (HDR10), 21:9 video, 3D and BT.2020 pass-through. Plus, ARC (Audio Return Channel) supports the transmission of audio from the TV with a single HDMI cable, simplifying overall setup. HDMI inputs automatically rename themselves based upon information provided by the source.

 

HEOS Built-in

With HEOS Built-in, the NR1200 can get access to almost unlimited music content from internet and can deliver music to any room throughout the home using other HEOS Built-in-capable speakers or electronics for a wireless, whole-home entertainment experience. Users can play the same song in every room or select a different song for each connected room. Enjoy music from Amazon, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal and more or local music file libraries. In addition, HEOS now supports Spotify Connect streaming for users with free accounts, so listeners can stream music from a mobile device or a computer directly from the Spotify app. Streaming content can be accessed via all popular providers using Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2 or the built-in HEOS app.

 

Integrated Phono Input with HDAM EQ Stage

Vinyl lovers can easily connect their turntable to the NR1200’s phono input and enjoy the purity of classic sound of their entire LP record collection. The advanced phono stage of the Marantz AVR outperforms inferior op-amp solutions, delivering the clarity and detail discerning listeners demand.

 

Intuitive Voice Control

NR1200 users will have access to effortless voice control from the leading voice agents such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri when paired with compatible Amazon, Apple and Google products. Use verbal commands to initiate music playback, turn the volume up or down, skip to the next track, input selection and more. Users can switch between voice agents or pick a favorite. Functionality varies by voice agent.

 

Custom Installation Support

The NR1200 is designed with custom integrators in mind. It offers both IP and IR control, web user interface and works with major remote room monitoring and management services, namely OvrC, ihiji Invision and Domotz Pro. The receiver also features L/R main and zone 2 preamp outputs, remote in/out terminals.

 

Additional Features Include:

·         Hi-Res Audio support: Decodes hi-res audio ALAC, FLAC and WAV lossless files up to 24-bit/192-kHz, as well as DSD 2.8MHz and 5.6MHz tracks. Listen to music via the front panel USB port or over network sources.

·         Tone Control: Fine-tune treble, bass and balance audio settings for your preference. Access independent Bass, Treble and Balance control knobs on the front panel.

·         Speaker A/B functionality with high-grade, gold-plated speaker terminals: Connect 2 pairs of stereo speakers, or use for bi-wiring.

·         Easy Set Up and Use: The included Setup Assistant offers clear, graphical on-screen direction.

·         Simple Select Buttons: Four Smart Select function buttons on the included remote control store preferred setup. With the push of a button, the NR1200 perfectly configures for any source, from Blu-ray to TV set-top box, to users’ favorite Internet radio station and more.

·         Dual Subwoofer Outputs: Supports dual subwoofers for even, low-frequency bass response within the listening environment.

·         HDMI CEC Functionality: Easily control the NR1200 with a Smart TV remote via the HDMI CEC functionality associated with Smart TVs.

·         Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Ensures Xbox One users have a more responsive and immersive gaming experience when connected with select TV models that also support ALLM.

·         The Marantz AVR Remote app for iOS and Android: Provides complete control over the latest Marantz network AV and stereo receivers.

The Marantz NR1200 will be available August 15^th for $599 at all authorized Marantz retailers.  

 

[1] GfK Japan data 2017 Feb - 2018 Jan for HiFi amp, CD player and receivers
  GfK Europe data 2016 Dec -2017 Nov for amplifier and CD player
  US NPD 2017 Jan - Dec data for HiFi receivers and amplifiers

 

About Marantz:

The company can trace its roots back to the dawn of the first mono LP, when Saul Bernard Marantz, a native of New York, was unhappy with the equipment available to play his cherished record collection on. So he had to build his own! Saul officially founded the Marantz Company in 1953. Then, as now, the company’s cornerstones were quality and innovation. For over 60 years, Marantz has been developing unique technologies and bringing landmark hi-fi and home entertainment products to market through its tireless and extensive R&D programs. Such commitment to audio and video excellence ensures each Marantz design delivers class-leading performance. Marantz is a part of Sound United LLC. Additional information is available at www.us.marantz.com.

 

About Sound United

Sound United is a division of DEI Holdings with an award-winning portfolio of audio brands that deliver industry-leading home theatre and personal audio listening experiences for a wide-range of consumers. Each brand provides an expansive array of audio products that includes high-end and custom installation audio, to mid-tier markets that cover loudspeakers, sound bars, AV receivers, wireless multi-room music systems, Bluetooth® speakers, amplifiers, turntables and headphones.

 

Dedicated to artfully reproducing audio for listeners and enthusiasts around the world, Sound United is comprised of Denon®, Marantz®, Polk Audio, Definitive Technology, Classé, Polk BOOM, HEOS®, Classé®, and Boston Acoustics®. Each brand offers a unique approach to bringing home theatre and music to life. Whether it’s through the legendary heritage of Denon, the classic sound of Polk Audio, the premium performance of Definitive Technology, the highly-sought-after amplification of Marantz, the action-inspired form factors of Polk BOOM, the wireless home audio solutions of HEOS, or the accessible performance of Boston Acoustics, Sound United is your sound — so listen.

 

To learn more about Sound United and its brands, visit www.soundunited.com.