ATLANTA, (April 5, 2011) — Next3D and Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. (TBS, Inc.) have expanded their collaborative alliance to include efforts to deploy 3D technology for the real-time production and streaming delivery of Live events to the emerging home 3D audience. The relationship leverages Next3D’s proprietary stereoscopic encoding technology and content delivery service to implement industry leading tools and techniques for end-to-end stereoscopic content acquisition and delivery.
“Our approach is to partner with advantaged technology companies, such as Next3D, to deliver high-quality 3D content over existing digital infrastructure,” said Jim McCaffrey, Executive Vice President, Operations & Strategy Chief Strategy Officer Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. “Next3D has demonstrated to us that its compression technology addresses some of the major challenges to delivering 3D content.”
“Next3D technology preserves and enhances image quality, producing a theater-like experience, the way 3D in the home should be,” said Steve Heyer, Chairman of Next3D. “Partnering with Turner to deliver Live events in vibrant High-Definition 3D is an important vote of confidence for us.”
Unlike current 3DTV broadcasting methods, which squeeze the 3D image into a single 2D image frame, Next3D’s patent-pending technology enables stereoscopic 3D video encoding and delivery in full high-definition 1080p. Reducing the amount of data to deliver a high definition 3D image by up to 75%, Next3D encoding reduces the bandwidth needed for home-delivery without sacrificing image quality. The ground-breaking technology also retains and enhances image details, critical to pristine 3D HD.
Next3D will demonstrate its advances in 3D technology at NAB 2011 in Las Vegas. To schedule a meeting or request an interview with company executives, visit next3d.com or contact Pedro Chen (pedrochen@maxborgesagency.com).
About TBS, Inc.
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, creates and programs branded news, entertainment, animation and young adult media environments on television and other platforms for consumers around the world.
About Next3D
Next3D, Inc. is a leader in stereoscopic 3D technology with more than 65 years of combined experience in media, content production, and stereoscopic delivery and display. With expertise and intellectual property spanning back to the first digital stereoscopic video distribution technology in the mid 1990s, Next3D has one of the most comprehensive and mature technology platforms in the stereoscopic industry. Next3D's proprietary, patent-pending video compression technology delivers a crisp, clear, and comfortable 3D experience over cable, satellite or broadband.
For more information about Next3D, please visit http://next3d.com. For a downloadable PDF detailing Next3D’s quality advantage, visit here.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Next3D and Turner Broadcasting Expand Alliance to Include Stereoscopic 3D Production and Delivery of Live Events
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FUJIFILM BLENDS STYLE WITH SUBSTANCE IN THE NEW FINEPIX Z900 EXR
Valhalla, N.Y., April 5, 2011 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation today announced the FinePix Z900 EXR digital camera, the latest addition to the fashion-forward line of Z-series compact cameras. The FinePix Z900 EXR delivers a powerful new 16-MegaPixel EXR CMOS sensor, a FUJINON 5x wide angle refractive optical zoom lens (28-140mm equivalent) and a large widescreen (16:9) 3.5” High Resolution Touch screen LCD with an easy-to-use Multi Touch user interface.
The FinePix Z900 EXR also offers a series of impressive features that include a new EXR Auto mode that recognizes 27 scenes, one-touch access to full 1080p HD movie capture, an intuitive Dual Direction GUI with beautiful vector font that allows for smooth and easy navigation with an improved Flash animation user interface with “tap and shoot” capabilities and fast image tagging with automatic upload functions to YouTube and Facebook.
“The new FinePix Z900 EXR blends our most fashion-forward design with a powerful 16-MegaPixel EXR CMOS sensor to give users a technology-packed camera for a night out on the town with friends when they want to capture the fun at every stop,” said David Troy, director of marketing, Digital Cameras, Electronics Imaging Division, FUJIFILM North America Corporation. “When design and function matter the most, the Z900 EXR is the hands-down choice for people who want fast multi touch operation, quick access to full HD video and speedy shooting modes that never miss a shot.”
EXR Sensor with CMOS Technology
With advanced image quality, improved low light sensitivity and faster performance, the EXR CMOS sensor technology brings new advanced imaging features to the FinePix Z900 EXR digital camera, including:
• High-speed Continuous Shooting - Ultra-burst shooting powered by the fast CMOS sensor shoots the action at 12fps and high speed movies at 320fps at full resolution.
• Multi Frame Technology - Combined with the accelerated performance of the CMOS, this feature synthesizes consecutive burst shots into a single composite image, blending the sensitivities to “smooth” the noise signature.
• High Sensitivity, Low Noise – CMOS turns the sensor upside down to let light directly strike the silicon for higher sensitivity, more uniform response and lower pixel cross talk. Combined with EXR technology, that means superior photos in low light with even lower noise.
Prized for bringing a new level of advanced image quality to the consumer compact market, Fujifilm’s EXR technology has the unique ability to switch its behavior depending on the shooting conditions by automatically switching sensor modes. The Z900 EXR can be left on EXR Auto Mode and the cameras will do all the work for you, or you can manually select one of three EXR Priority modes: High Resolution (HR); Dynamic Range (DR), which takes two pictures and combines them to provide a range of up to 1600%; or High ISO, Low Noise, which is perfect for capturing stunning pictures in low light situations.
Stylish Design
The FinePix Z900 EXR features a slim metal chassis and a chic horizontal sliding lens barrier. At only 18.2mm* thin, the FinePix Z900 EXR is ultra-portable and can easily be slipped into a handbag or jeans pocket. It is available in a choice of three stylish colors: matte black, red or blue.
HD Movie Capability
With full 1080p HD movie capture, the FinePix Z900 EXR captures vivid images that can be played back in beautiful detail on your HDTV. In addition, the FinePix Z900 EXR’s one-touch movie button makes it simple to create your own movie clips, with sequential capture, letting you start and stop in a single movie clip. Full 1080p HD movies in low light are especially brilliant thanks to Pixel Fusion Movie Technology that makes pixels more sensitive to dim light situations. Movie files (.MOV) are captured in full 1080p HD in stereo at 30fps with H.264 high profile compression for smaller file sizes without sacrificing quality. With a mini-HDMI output connector, it is easy to connect and view images on your HDTV (HDMI cable not included).
Easy Web Uploads
Sharing photos online has become an everyday activity for many people, so Fujifilm includes the Facebook/YouTube Automatic Upload feature that makes for quicker and easier modes of posting photos/videos on social networking sites. This feature allows users to identify and tag a photo for Facebook or YouTube upload. Once the camera is connected to a PC and MyFinePix Studio software is launched, all marked photos or movies will upload directly to Facebook or YouTube at the press of a button.
Additional Advanced Features
The FinePix Z900 EXR also has the following noteworthy features:
• Tap and Shoot: Provides the ability for one touch focus and shooting for easy photo taking. After the user taps the focal point of choice for the shooting scene on the LCD display, the camera automatically sets the appropriate focus and functions, and then releases the shutter for optimal one touch picture taking.
• EXR Auto mode featuring 27 scenes: This mode intelligently detects the scene-type and shooting conditions and optimizes the camera settings accordingly.
• Intelligent Image Stabilization
The new mechanically stabilized sensor is able to overcome handshake and can compensate for both sharp and wide hand movements, therefore increasing ISO to freeze action is no longer so necessary, meaning sharp low-light pictures can be achieved at ISO 400, rather than ISO 800 or 1600 at night scenery. The FinePix Z900 EXR also works to reduce blur to a minimum by deploying high ISO sensitivity to automatically increase shutter speeds, and CMOS shift type to counteract the problems of handshake. By cleverly combining these two, blur is reduced to an absolute minimum.
• Face Recognition: Fujifilm’s Face Recognition Technology gives you the ability to pre-program 8 people into the camera. You also have the option of inputting the category to which they belong (e.g. friends/family) and the date of his/her birthday. The next time you take a photo of the same person, the camera will cleverly recognize that person and optimize the settings to ensure that exposure and focus are best suited to the individual, rather than the other people in the picture. This fun technology can recognize up to 4 pre-programmed people on screen at the same time.
• Face Detection and Automatic Red-eye Removal: To provide perfectly exposed and focused portrait shots, the FinePix Z900 EXR is fitted with Fujifilm’s latest Face Detection technology which is able to track up to 10 faces simultaneously, at almost any angle to the camera. The system instantly corrects red-eye and then saves both the original and the corrected image file automatically.
• i-Flash Intelligent Flash: Offers a flash control system which efficiently controls the level of flash for a given exposure to produce beautifully balanced flash illumination across the foreground and background. Gone are the ugly washout shots where the subject is blasted with light and the background dark and unexposed.
• Motion Panorama 360° Mode: The FinePix Z900 EXR sensor extends the sweep range to 360˚ (shots can also be taken vertically). Combined with high quality Fujifilm printing, sweeping and impressive scenes can be taken, showing fine detail, low noise and high resolution at 180°, 240˚ or full 360˚ panoramic ranges.
• Playback Capabilities: Offers a variety of playback features for easy and immediate sharing such as the widescreen LCD in full HD, slide show, sort, edit and search features, plus Dual Image Display that splits the screen in various ways to view multiple images at once.
• Photo Book Assist: Photo Book Assist lets you select and organize images in your camera to create a digital photo book. You can download the photo books to your computer using MyFinePix Studio software that is included.
The FinePix Z900 EXR will be available in May 2011 at a retail price of $279.95.
NOTE: For complete camera specifications, please go to: http://www.fujifilm.com/products/digital_cameras/.
*As measured at its thinnest chassis point
About Fujifilm
FUJIFILM North America Corporation, a marketing subsidiary of FUJIFILM Corporation, consists of five operating divisions and one subsidiary company. The Imaging Division sells consumer and commercial photographic products and services including film, one-time-use cameras, online photo services and fulfillment, digital printing equipment and service. The Electronic Imaging Division markets consumer digital cameras. The Motion Picture Division provides motion picture film, and the Graphic Systems Division supplies products and services to the printing industry. The Optical Devices Division provides binoculars, and optical lenses for closed circuit television, videography, cinematography, broadcast and industrial markets. FUJIFILM Canada Inc. markets a range of Fujifilm products and services. For more information, please visit www.fujifilm.com/northamerica, or go to www.twitter.com/fujifilmus to follow Fujifilm on Twitter. To receive news and information direct from Fujifilm via RSS, subscribe at www.fujifilmusa.com/rss.
FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Tokyo, Japan, brings continuous innovation and leading-edge products to a broad spectrum of industries, including electronic imaging, digital printing equipment, medical systems, life sciences, graphic arts, flat panel display materials, and office products, based on a vast portfolio of digital, optical, fine chemical and thin film coating technologies. The company was among the top 20 companies around the world granted U.S. patents in 2009, and in the year ended March 31, 2010, had global revenues of $23.5 billion*. Fujifilm is committed to environmental stewardship and good corporate citizenship. For more information, please visit www.fujifilmholdings.com.
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KICKER® Compact Docking System for iPod®/iPhone® Available Through shop.kicker.com
STILLWATER, USA – KICKER® Performance Audio has taken its vast knowledge of rich, robust sound and applied it to its newest and most compact docking system yet. The iKick100™ Compact Docking System for iPod® and iPhone® comes with the same intense sonic resolution of other KICKER docks, but in a less imposing package. The iKick100 is available for purchase online at shop.kicker.com or from any participating authorized dealer.
Despite its smaller size, the trademark elevated volume level remains. The iKick100 sets itself apart from the mainstream by utilizing a bass-activating, flared-port design for extended low frequency output, as well as a DSP-controlled amplifier tuned for maximum output potential and premium sound. The Bass Activator™ helps in making the iKick100 stand alone as a superior audio piece for confined spaces.
With dual speakers positioned for wide stereo imaging in factory listening tests, the brick-sized KICKER dock is sure to produce the clearest and cleanest sound that’s perfect for any office desk, night stand or coffee table.
The iKick100 has a backlit, capacitive-touch screen for volume control. A single touch can increase or decrease the volume level depending on the listener’s environment. An auxiliary-input jack for connecting additional media players, computers or satellite radio is also controlled by the touch screen located on top of the dock.
The stylish black dock fits into the smallest places of any room, where the listener can turn up the volume with a lightweight, full-function remote control that handles any adjustments the user requests.
An adjustable rear support attachment keeps 4G iPhones and 4th generation-or-newer iPods stable while they’re docked, and a handy USB port is available to keep cell phones and other external devices charged. An AC power cord and external 12-volt power supply are also included, making it possible to keep rocking throughout the day.
KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile and home audio aftermarket at authorized dealers worldwide, and also through selected Original Equipment Manufacturers. Consumers needing more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand Web site at www.kicker.com. Follow KICKER at facebook.com/kickeraudio and twitter.com/kickeraudio.
iPod and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
KICKER iKick100 Compact Stereo System Specifications
Model iK100
Speaker Design Stereo Full Range
Woofer Sizes (in, mm) 2.5, 63.5
RMS Power, watts (@ 1% THD) 12
Effective Frequency Range (Hz) 80-20k, +/-3dB
Power Supply (volts, ampere) 12, 2
Height x Width x Depth (in, mm) 3.3 (84) x 8.8 (224) x 4.6 (117)
Weight (lbs, kg) 1.9, 0.9
MSRP $149.95
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Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Extender from Gefen uses HDBaseT and PoL (Power over Line) Technologies to Send HDMI, Power, Ethernet, IR and RS-232 Over a Single CAT-5 Cable
New ELR (Extra Long Range) Extender from Gefen uses HDBaseT and PoL (Power over Line) Technologies to Send HDMI, Power, Ethernet, IR and RS-232 Over a Single CAT-5 Cable
CHATSWORTH, CA – Digital connectivity solutions provider Gefen today announced its newest breakthrough for an extra long-range extension of HDMI devices. The GefenPRO ELR Extender for HDMI with PoL offers a long-range, multi-signal method of extension up to 330-feet (100m) over just one CAT-5 cable, a significant improvement over previous solutions, which required two cables to reach shorter distances.
Innovative Gefen PoL technology based on the Power over Ethernet standard enables the delivery of power to the receiver unit, giving an added advantage to the integrator. Power is provided to the receiver using the AC power connected at the sender unit. Each receiver unit is also equipped with an additional 5v output to power a supplemental product, such as a scaler, switcher or splitter at the display location.
The GefenPRO ELR Extender for HDMI with PoL is ideal for installations where power requirements are limited at the receiving side, such as when mounting projectors on the ceiling. By reducing the cabling requirements from two to one, it allows installers to easily tap into existing in-wall CAT-5 type cabling.
HDMI video at 1080p full HD resolutions, 3DTV support, audio, IR remote, RS-232 control, Ethernet and power are all delivered over the same CAT-5 cable. HDMI features supported include 3DTV, deep color, lip sync and audio delay. Both the IR backchannel and RS-232 connection can be used to control the display from the remote location.
As a GefenPRO product, the ELR Extender for HDMI with PoL comes with advanced technical support, a two-year warranty, and plug and play performance.
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New D-Link® Wireless N Network Camera Offers Infrared Illumination for Viewing Live Video Streams at Night
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. – April 4, 2011 – Giving people the ability to check in on what matters most for the ultimate peace of mind, D-Link® today announced that it’s mydlink™-enabled Wireless N Day/Night Network Camera (DCS-932L) is now available. With a built-in CPU and web server, the DCS-932L offers a complete day and night monitoring system for homes and small offices. Featuring simple installation and an intuitive web-based interface, consumers can easily integrate the DCS-932L into an existing network and view the streaming video from a PC, notebook, Apple iPhone®, Apple iPad®, or Android™ phone or tablet.
Unlike traditional USB-connected webcams, mydlink-enabled cameras feature built-in CPUs and web servers for high-quality live streaming video sent directly to the network without a PC. The compact DCS-932L offers 802.11n Wi-Fi connectivity, Wi-Fi Protected Setup™ (WPS) for simple three step installation, Motion JPEG, and 20 frames per second (fps) streaming, as well as new infrared illumination technology for night viewing. This new infrared technology enables users to monitor a home or small office at up to 16 feet away from the camera, enabling around the clock surveillance of children, sleeping babies, pets, homebound relatives, valued possessions, and more.
“With D-Link’s new day/night network camera, consumers can quickly, easily and affordably add networked surveillance to their home or small office,” said Daniel Kelley, associate vice president of consumer marketing, D-Link North America. “The addition of infrared technology to the mydlink camera line gives consumers peace of mind knowing that their loved ones and cherished belongings can be easily monitored from a remote location via PC, notebook or smart phone 24 hours a day.”
Equipped with mydlink for on-the-go viewing, users can remotely view the DCS-932L’s live video stream from a PC or notebook. And with the free mydlink app (available from the Apple App Store or the Android Market Place), consumers can watch real-time video directly on their iPhone, Android phone or Android tablet. Or, use the Apple iPhone App to view video on an iPad. In addition, mydlink allows for a quick and simple set-up and installation right out of the box; just follow the easy three step set-up process, rather than having to configure each camera for specific routers.
The VGA (640x480) resolution DCS-932L also comes with D-ViewCam™ camera management software for Windows PCs, which allows consumers to record video from any mydlink camera to a local hard drive. It also lets consumers set trigger motion detection, recording schedules and e-mail alert notifications for up to 32 cameras.
Availability and Pricing
The DCS-932L Wireless N Network Camera is now available with an MSRP of $149.99 throughout D-Link’s vast network of e-tail outlets in North America, and at the company’s online store, http://www.dlinkshop.com.
About D-Link
D-Link is the global leader in connectivity for home, small business, mid- to large-sized enterprise environments, and service providers. An award-winning designer, developer, and manufacturer, D-Link implements and supports unified network solutions that integrate capabilities in switching, wireless, broadband, storage, IP Surveillance, and cloud-based network management. For more information visit www.dlink.com, www.dlink.ca or connect with D-Link on Facebook (www.facebook.com/dlink) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/dlink).
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GERMAN MAESTRO SUB WOOFERS SHIPPING
Laguna Hills, CA April 2, 2011 – German Maestro announced today that the new 5 Series W.10 and W.12 sub woofers are shipping now. Each model sports a dual 3-inch 2-Ohm voice coil. The W.12 with MRP of $549.99 is rated at 500 watts RMS and the W.10 MRP $529.99 is rated at 400 watts RMS.
German Maestro 5 Series sub woofers “employ neodymium magnet technology used so successfully in the German Maestro component speaker category”, explains Ray Windsor of German Maestro USA. He continued, “The idea is to design an exceptionally good sounding sub woofer with power handling capability to deliver significant SPL and make it very installer friendly. In the tradition of German Maestro we believe we have succeeded masterfully.”
The German Maestro W.12 requires merely 1.27 cubic feet of volume with a 3x11 inch port. The top load mounting depth is a remarkable 4.5 inches. The W.10 requires .7 cubic of volume with a 3x11 inch port. The top load mounting depth is an incredible 3.7 inches. Installer friendly indeed!
Light weight but very sturdy cast aluminum baskets add value to installer friendliness of the German Maestro 5 Series sub woofers. With the 5 Series sub woofers made in Europe, German Maestro continues to travel its own but well respected path to delivering audio quality inside the most efficient package possible. “There are no blue LEDs, no chrome, no wasted material. Rather every bit of material has a valuable function and contributes to the exceptional performance, reliability and world class listening experience that we strive to deliver in every German Maestro loudspeaker” explained Windsor. One can tell by looking at the 5 Series sub woofers that they have been designed by engineers with efficiency in mind. A listen will confirm that these engineers are equipped with a great set of ears as well.
German Maestro is committed to delivering its products and services to market through a select network of brick & mortar installing specialty retailers who focus on providing a superior consumer experience. Learn more at www.german-maestro.de
Facebook: German MAESTRO Germany
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Monday, April 4, 2011
Onkyo Debuts New HT-RC Receiver Models for 2011
UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (4/4/11) -- Onkyo, a brand renowned worldwide for quality home entertainment technology, has included expanded audio, video, USB, network and internet connectivity in two new upgraded models in its HT-RC family of home theater receivers. The new Onkyo HT-RC370 and HT-RC360, which replace the HT-RC270 and HT-RC260, are also among the first AV receivers equipped with the new Marvell Qdeo 4K video upscaling processor. Both include a front-panel USB port that offers a direct digital connection for an iPod or iPhone, along with support for audio playback from USB mass-storage devices. The USB port even support album art from your iPod/iPhone. Among other upgrades, the HT-RC360 gains full networking capabilities while the HT-RC370 adds Audyssey MultEQ XT processing.
These two network-capable receivers support streaming PC audio and Internet radio from the likes of Pandora, Rhapsody, Napster, SiriusXM Internet Radio, Slacker, Mediafly and vTuner and provide compatibility with Windows® 7 and DLNA. The Internet connection greatly simplifies the process of providing future updates to the receiver’s firmware. These networking models can also take advantage of Onkyo’s free Remote App for iPod, iPhone, or iPad to control the A/V receiver. Both models are also compatible with the recently announced UWF-1 Wireless USB Adapter that provides an IEEE 802.11b/g/n connection to access music on a home network.
For movie and home theater enthusiasts, these receivers have more than enough HDMI inputs to accommodate any likely combination of cable TV, satellite, and disk player sources, including 3D. Both the HT-RC370 and HT-RC360 now also include connections for USB, Ethernet, and Onkyo's proprietary Universal Port (U-Port), as well as a full array of traditional audio and video sources.
As would be expected from a company with the audio credentials of Onkyo, both receivers offer exceptional sound quality, with the HT-RC370 earning THX's prestigious Select2 Plus certification. Both modes are 7.2-channel surround sound systems with Audyssey DSX or Dolby ProLogic IIz processing included to provide alternative height or wide channels. The advanced HDMI interface supports lossless high-definition surround sound via Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio codecs. The HT-RC370's sonic performance has been upgraded with Audyssey MultEQ XT for a superior room equalization setup and the addition of Dolby Volume for optimal sound at any volume setting. The HT-RC360 uses Audyssey 2EQ room correction and includes Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume to correct loudness issues.
Both models feature the brand new Marvell Qdeo video-processing chip, which can upscale video to 1080p and beyond to as much as 4K of horizontal resolution, regardless of the source resolution. While 4K video display technology is not yet on the market, this new processor handles current-source upsampling with ease, and will be ready for future displays.
Both receivers include Onkyo's proprietary WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) amplifiers, and the HT-RC370 also employs Onkyo's three-stage inverted Darlington circuitry for even higher dynamics and lower distortion. Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DACs are provided for all channels on both receivers. Like all current Onkyo receivers, they feature the company's Overlaid Graphic On-Screen Display so users can still watch a program while operating the menus. Onkyo's latest Graphical User Interface (GUI) lets users smoothly navigate internet radio, iPod/iPhone sources, or any other connected sources.
The Onkyo HT-RC370 and HT-RC360 will both be available in April with suggested retail prices of $849 and $549 respectively.
Since 1946 Onkyo has been passionately committed to developing audio products that deliver uncommon performance, quality and value. Bundling proprietary technologies and innovations with other sound-enhancing exclusives, Onkyo continues to created award winning products that are lauded by many of the industry leading audio publications. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit www.onkyousa.com or call 800-229-1687.
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Sunday, April 3, 2011
Optoma HD20 1080P Full HD Entry-Level DLP Home Theater Projector
he Optima HD20 is pretty good. It f
eatures an all plastic gloss white body. Zoom and focus are manual. So if you are ceiling mounting it, that may want to be considered. Controls are on the top, which is also conveniently located when ceiling mounted. The rear has single connections for composite, component, and VGA, and dual HDMI inputs. In all, the HD20 had a good heft to it, and felt well put together. The remote control was simple to use and well laid out. The blue backlit buttons were also so bright that in a dark light controlled room you could also see the labels for what the buttons were for. The quality was as good as I would expect at this price point. The performance you can get in an entry level product is similar to what you would get a few years ago paying twice as much. You've got to love that, if this is your budget. I continue to be amazed at the level of performance with some entry level products. The Optoma HD20 is a good example of this. With an MSRP of $999, I was amazed at the performance you get.
It is a 1080P front
projector that has a l
ot going for it. Light output was pretty good. While the image did get washed out a good deal with the lights on but was still enjoyable, the image was significantly better in a light controlled environment. I was equally impressed with the out of the box image quality at factory default settings, including skin tones. With a few minor twea
ks in the menus, the image w
as even better, such as correcting the reds from being a tad oversaturated at times. But users would probably be happy with the image out of the box, and not feel the need to make any adjustments, or maybe just a few. Adjusting the setting, such as color, contrast and noise reduction was fairly simple. But for those not comfortable adjusting those settings, there were also picture modes of Cinema, Bright, Photo, Reference, and User. The lamp also had a bright mode, which increased the light output, but the increase was minimal. The overall image had a lot going for it. Light uniformity was good edge to edge. Overall color saturation was good, with the reds being just a bit over saturated. Sharpness was not as good as I am used to, but for this price point it was good. And as mentioned earlier, skin tones were also good. Improved optics could help the overall image, but that would put the Optoma HD20 at a different price point. The 1080P resolution was also good.
d as such I wanted to include some pics of how the image looks. It is a difficult process. While I used a very capable Canon Digital Rebel T1i, computer monitors are rarely calibrated, so the colors and image do not come out nearly as good as they are seen on screen. But not posting pics on a projector review seemed even more wrong. So take the pics with a grain of salt. I included a couple from the movie "Wolverine" to show how it looks on film, as well as animation to show off its colors, and sharpness. 
on the Sony in just about every way. The resolution was the same, but with better optics. Video processing was better with fewer artifacts. Contrast was significantly improved, and color uniformity was better. The image had more pop, better depth, and the LCOS panels had better black level performance. The image was also more refined looking. That may seem a little rough, especially how positive I have been on the Optoma HD20. But the Sony is 3 times more expensive, so it should perform significantly better. But...in the end, I kept saying to myself...this is only a $1,000 projector?! For $1,000 you definitely get a lot of bang for your buck! And for $1,000 it looks REALLY good. 
ses a single DLP chip and color wheel. This does however bring out what is called the "Rainbow Effect" that some are susceptible to. Some people can see them, and some don't. And of the ones that can see the rainbows, some would consider it minor and no big deal, and for others it would really bug them. So, it is best to experience DLP technology first, before you make a purchase and potentially regret it. I personally see them, and it does bother me. And the HD20 is no different. For those that are not bothered by the Rainbow Effect, the Optima HD20 is a great entry-level product! 
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Friday, April 1, 2011
Boston Acoustics® Introduces GTuned Subwoofer Enclosure Systems - Providing Outstanding Performance and Value
Peabody, MA—April 2011—Boston Acoustics, a longtime leader in premium sound components for aftermarket mobile audio systems, announced today five new GTuned Subwoofer Enclosure models. GTuned prefabricated loaded enclosures are specifically engineered to optimize the performance of Boston’s own 10- and 12-inch G1 subwoofers. Rounding off the subwoofer enclosure systems is the SG555PS enclosure which is specifically designed for its reference subwoofer, the high-output SPG555.
“The GTuned models answer the need for consumers and dealers who want a one-box subwoofer solution,” said Sanjay Sharma, National Sales Manager for Boston Acoustics Mobile Audio. “With the introduction of these enclosures, we continue to build on our new product commitment for 2011, offering class-leading product adding to the strength of our existing lines.”
All GTuned enclosures are extremely rugged, utilizing non-resonant MDF construction, with reinforced front baffles for added rigidity. Highly-accurate CNC machining, and glued dado ends, ensure that the cabinet will not flex, leak, or break. Boston’s port design maximizes surface area to minimize unwanted noise from port turbulence. All models feature flush-set terminal cups to prevent air leaks (and to minimize interference), and include heavy-duty, nickel-plated push-terminals for easy hookup.
New for the 2011 GTuned G1 boxes, Boston moved its patented SureSet fuse protection from the G1 subwoofer to the flush-set terminal cup. This key enhancement offers easier fuse access, making service a snap. Boston’s SureSet uses a standard ATC fuse for momentary overdrive protection allowing a level of reliability not traditionally found at any price point.
"GTuned enclosures are specifically designed to harness the full potential of our subwoofers, each offering great extension and maximum output while holding true to the sound quality that you have come to expect from Boston," said Dave Jaques, Product and Marketing Manager for Boston Acoustics Mobile Audio.
The GTuned enclosures are finished in black premium automotive carpet with high-contrast gray side inserts and are delivered complete and ready for drop-in installation.
The Boston Acoustics GTuned family of subwoofer enclosures is now available at the following suggested prices:
Model/MSRP Type Power Handing Impedance
G110PS: $199 Ported, 10-inch 200 Watts RMS / 400 Watts Max 4-ohm
G112PS: $219 Ported, 12-inch 200 Watts RMS / 400 Watts Max 4-ohm
G110PD: $329 Ported, 10-inch 400 Watts RMS / 800 Watts Max 2-ohm
G112PD: $349 Ported, 10-inch 400 Watts RMS / 800 Watts Max 2-ohm
SPG555PS: $849 Ported 1000 Watts RMS / 2000 Watts Max 2-ohm
About Boston Acoustics
Founded in 1979, Boston Acoustics, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets high performance audio systems for use in home music and audio-video systems, aftermarket and OEM automotive systems, and custom built-in audio systems. Highly regarded for creating The Boston Sound, the company is renowned for delivering superior, competitively priced products emphasizing performance, consistency, and value. For further information, visit the company’s website at www.bostonacoustics.com.
About D&M Holdings, Inc.
D&M Holdings, Inc. is a global operating company providing worldwide management and distribution platforms for premium consumer, automotive, commercial, and professional audio and video businesses, including Allen & Heath, Denon®, Marantz®, McIntosh® Laboratory, Boston Acoustics®, Snell Acoustics, Escient, Calrec Audio, Denon DJ, D&M Professional, and D&M Premium Sound Solutions. Our technologies improve the quality of any audio and visual experience. All product and brand names with a trademark symbol are trademarks or registered trademarks of D&M Holdings, Inc. or its subsidiaries. For more information, visit www.dm-holdings.com.
DISCLAIMER
Statements in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may include forward-looking statements regarding future events or the future financial performance of the Company. We wish to caution you that such statements are just predictions, and that actual events or results may differ materially. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties surrounding competitive and industry conditions, market acceptance for the Company’s products, ability to meet targeted product-release dates, risks of litigation, technological changes, developing industry standards, and other factors related to the Company’s businesses. The Company reserves all of its rights.
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Sceptre Infuses Modern Style into 32-inch FullHD 1080P LED TV with Nickel Brush Accents and Tempered Glass Stand
City of Industry, Calif. - March 31, 2011 – Sceptre, superior manufacturers of world class LED and LCD TV and PC monitors, redefines traditional HDTV design with their new line of 32-inch nickel brush LED HDTVs. Part of the Galaxy series, the new HDTVs feature a nickel brush design, elegant power indicator, are available in different color schemes, and feature cutting-edge technology that will entertain in style.
Highlighted by an elegant combination of contrasting textures, a front bezel and a beveled stand, the new line of 32-inch FullHD 1080P LED TVs provides a futuristic aura to any décor in any setting. Measuring only 1” at its thinnest and 1.82” at its thickest, the new FullHD 1080P TVs are slim enough to fit into any space in any room, while the 1080P and 1920x1080 resolution makes it versatile enough to enjoy your favorite HD movies or use it as a gaming monitor.
“Sceptre is constantly exploring and inventing ways to blend functionality, affordability and style to satisfy the evolving consumer demands,” said Cathy Chou, Vice President of Operations, Sceptre. “We introduced different designs and styles to give the consumers an option to step away from the ordinary and now we are giving them the ability to take a step further into the designer realm.”
The new line of 32-inch FullHD 1080P LED TVs come standard with 3 HDMI ports for easy connectivity, a beveled tempered glass stand swivel base, 16:9 widescreen aspect radio, 50,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Radio and two 9 Watt speakers with 7-Band equalizer for immersive sound experience.
Design patterns include Nickel Brush with Black Accent, Black with Nickel Brush Accent and Pink with Nickel Brush Accent, are available at Wal-Mart, Target, Sears, Kmart, Newegg, Amazon and QVC for just $499.99 MSRP. For more information, please visit www.sceptre.com
ADDITIONAL PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
E320GV-FHD (Nickel Brush with Black Accent)
E320BV-FHD (Black with Nickel Brush Accent)
E320PV-FHD (Pink with Nickel Brush Accent)
31.5” active screen size
1080P HDTV
1920x1080 Resolution
60Hz Refresh Rate
16:9 Widescreen Aspect Ratio
400 cd/m2 Brightness
50,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio
3 x HDMI Ports
6.5 ms Response Time
ATSC/ NTSC/ Clear QAM
9 Watt x 2 Speakers
Wall Mount Patter 200 mm x 100 mm
Beveled tempered glass stand
Swivel Base
MSRP: $499.99
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