James Loudspeaker™ Introduces Slim Profile Aluminum SLT3 SoundBar Series

James Loudspeaker™ Introduces Slim Profile Aluminum SLT3 SoundBar Series

    

The new SLT3CS Centergy™ pair is custom-sized for each TV and color-matched to suit any décor

  

Napa, CA, June 8, 2015 – James Loudspeaker (www.jamesloudspeaker.com), designers and manufacturers of the highest quality décor-friendly entertainment products for both residential and commercial applications, has added to their lineup of sound bars with slim 3-inch profile full-range models called the SLT3 Series. This new series delivers high power handling and extended bass response compared to competitive slim sound bars.

 

SLT3CS SoundBar pair:

Intended for vertical applications on either side of any flat panel TV, James Loudspeaker engineers were able to achieve the compact 3.15-inch wide/4.75-inch deep form factor (height measurement customized for each TV) by creating a bandpass enclosure within the sound bar in order to accommodate four proprietary 3.5-inch aluminum woofers. This innovative design enables integrators with limited space to deliver superb sound quality while elegantly covering the space and related wiring behind the TV. The SLT3CS can be used in conventional stereo applications or with James Loudspeaker’s renowned Centergy™ L/C/R array, producing a full Left/Center/Right output from a single pair of loudspeakers.

 

The James Loudspeaker SLT3CS sound bar pair provides audio for video content with great balance, precision and detail. Spoken dialogue is crystal clear, often the downfall of modern flat panel TV’s internal speakers. And with each sound bar custom sized and finished to match any TV, the visual presentation is as stunning as the sonic performance. The SLT3CS can be used as a basic audio upgrade for any TV, or as the Left/Center/Right channels of a complete surround system. In either application, the user will enjoy unmatched audio clarity from a loudspeaker that is barely visible in the room. Because it is side-mounted, the SLT3CS is also an ideal solution for curved TVs.

 

The SLT3CS was initially developed to accommodate applications requiring a slender profile. James engineers, seeking to generate high output and extended low frequencies from a small form factor, employed an advanced band pass enclosure housing four 3.5-inch woofers per sound bar as well as a pair of 2-inch aluminum midrange drivers and a ¾-inch aluminum tweeter to create superb 3-way full-range clarity. Frequency response of the SLT3CS is 70Hz – 22kHz, astonishing range for such a low-profile sound bar. 

Unlike most A/V suppliers, James Loudspeaker creates each SLT3CS sound bar pair to match the needs of their authorized custom integrators that serve both residential and commercial markets. A marine version with heavy duty powder coating is available as required. “The SLT3CS was developed in direct response to feedback from our integrators,” explained James Loudspeaker President Mark Schafle. “Our installer-friendly custom brackets and size-to-match aluminum loudspeakers provide a seamless interface into any room along with stellar audio performance. The SLT3CS is the type of engineered loudspeaker solution that has become the hallmark of the James brand.”

SLT3 Series Pricing

The James Loudspeaker SLT3CS Centergy SoundBar pair is available now and has an MSRP of $4000. In addition to the vertically configured SLT3CS, the SLT3 Series features three additional SoundBar models to accommodate both vertical and horizontal mounting applications; the SLT3LCR (featuring drivers for left-center-right, MSRP of $2800 each) or SLT3LR (featuring drivers for stereo, MSRP $2500 each) or SLT3C (featuring drivers for center only, MSRP $2200 each).

 

About James Loudspeaker: James Loudspeaker™ designs and manufactures high-performance speakers for residential and commercial applications. James offers a vast array of architectural speakers along with built-to-suit solutions that minimize visual presence while delivering the finest sound quality for indoor, outdoor and marine audio systems. Engineered and manufactured in Napa, CA since 1999, James Loudspeaker products are sold and installed through the finest custom integration specialists worldwide. www.jamesloudspeaker.com 

 

 

Sound Blaster E5 High Resolution USB DAC & Portable Headphone Amp Review by Jeff Roy

We love our music. And our portable devices, such as cell phones or MP3 players, make it easy to take our music on the go. These portable players do an ok job powering headphones. The nicer the headphones, the better the sound. And to really make these nicer headphones sing, extra power really helps. Enter the Creative E5 Headphone Amp.

Features and specs:

o    Audio Processor: SB-Axx1™

o    Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 120dB (DAC)

o    Connectivity Options (Main):  microUSB
Line / Mic / Optical In: 1 x 3.5mm jack
Headphone Out : 2 x 3.5mm jacks
Line / Optical Out : 1 x 3.5mm jack
USB Host Streaming: 1 x Type-A USB Port

o    Max Channel Output: Stereo

o    Audio Technologies: SBX Pro Studio, CrystalVoice

o    Microphone: Microphone Type: Built-in Mic with auto-orientation sensor (Landscape / Portrait modes)

The Creative E5 Headphone Amp came in a nice looking printed box with photos of the product and its specs and features. Included with it were the owner's manual, wall plug, USB charging cable, and optical cable. Materials used in the construction was mostly plastic with some metal. The quality of materials used were very good, as was the quality of construction and fit and finish. It felt well made in hand.

As you can see form the features and specs, the Creative E5 is more than just a headphone amp. Creative has an excellent reputation in the computer components industry for their sound cards. Creative has tapped into this expertise and included the SB-Axx1 sound processor chip. This processing chip delivers quite the sonic punch.

Creative could have stopped there and have a great product. Instead, they made a great product better by adding Bluetooth. This turned the Creative E5 into a wireless product. So now you have a lot of options. Looking for a great headphone amp? Check . Don’t need a headphone amp, but instead looking for a wireless product that has excellent sound processing? Check. The Creative E5 will do it all.

I love the fact that the Creative E5 is designed for the audiophile. Using top of the line Cirrus Logic CS4398 DAC, it can handle 24 bit/192 kHz resolution with a high 120 db SNR. So whether it’s standard mp3 or high resolution audio, the Creative E5 is ready for anything. With the Cirrus Logic CS5361 ADC, it’s also ready for high quality recording with it’s built-in dual microphones for stereo recording to your smartphone or tablet. And the built-in crystal Voice provides a suite of audio recording DSP enhancements. SBX Pro Studio adds realism to your games and movies. The Bluetooth 4.1 uses aptX, AAC, and SBC for quality wireless connections. The Texas Instruments T16120A2 headphone amp provider ultra low distortion, handles impedance from 2.2 to 600 Ohm.  It can also power two pairs of headphones simultaneously, and is designed to work seamlessly with both Android and iOS.

All of this looks great on paper, but how does it sound? With as many features as the Creative E5 has, I must admit, I had high expectations. I am glad to say, I am not disappointed. For a lower ohm rated pair, I tried them out with a pair of German Maetro GMP 435 S. They are efficient to drive with just an iPad or cellphone, as most headphones are. But having the extra power did open them up. When talking about amplifier power, I like to use the analogy of horsepower and torque. You can have a lot of horsepower, but if you’ve got a big, heavy load, that’s where having a lot of torque is what is important. It can be similar with amplifiers. Having that extra power can really help to drive the speakers.

Listening with the Creative E5, it delivered just as it was intended. Honestly, there was not a huge difference. But my German Maestro’s did sound cleaner, richer, and fuller. The drivers were able to open up with the extra power. And I could tell there was plenty in reserve, like having a lot of torque for when it’s needed. I was also glad to hear that they were very transparent as well. When not using the powerful audio chip to have fun with some DSP, the music sounded like the recording I am used to hearing, only a bit more aural bliss!

As previously mentioned, the Creative E5 has more features than just a headphone amp. The Bluetooth functionality worked very well! It worked much better than expected actually. Most Bluetooth devices have a range of 20-30 feet. This range is also affected by obstructions or walls. With a straight line of sight, I actually got about 40 feet. And walls didn’t seem to affect it. I had my cell phone linked with the Creative E5, with it being in my bedroom upstairs. I was able to walk around all over the upstairs with no problems. I was even able to walk around most of the downstairs as well with no problems!

The built-in audio processor proved to also work well too: I was able to easily download the app on my cell phone. Once my cellphone was linked to the Creative E5, I was able to open up the app. The app was divided into two sections. The first was DSP, the second was a 10 band equalizer. The DSP had fun effects to select from, such as surround, 3D, and bass, to name a few. And for each effect you can change the amount of the effect. The 10 band EQ allowed you to change the level of each band for a custom setting. There was also a multitude of preset settings, such as Rock, Pop, Jazz, Classical, etc. I was glad to hear the amp was fairly transparent. But playing with the EQ and DSP also proved to be fun as well.

Creative set out to design a great headphone amp with a lot of functionality. With the Creative E5, they hit the ball out of the park! For the audio purist, they provide the extra juice your headphones could be craving. For those that like to play with the EQ and DSP, Creative has you covered there. And of course, the extra functionality such as Bluetooth and built in mics for hands free use is just icing on the cake. Based on it’s design, features, quality, and performance, the Creative E5 has eared our Editor’s Choice Award. Kudos to Creative. For more info and complete specs, check out their websites at www.uscreative.com.

Bryston Unveils High-Performance Integrated Audio Device Available for BDP-2 Music Player

Bryston Unveils High-Performance Integrated Audio Device Available for BDP-2 Music Player

Improved performance and integrated circuit topology highlight in-house manufactured device for new and existing BDP-2 owners

 

Peterborough, Ontario May 28, 2015 — Bryston has announced the introduction of a proprietary Integrated Audio Device (IAD) for the BDP-2 Music Player. The new IAD delivers improved specifications and replaces the current two-piece third-party sound card and SPDIF interface module (AES/BNC) utilized in the BDP-2. All new BDP-2 players are currently shipping with the new IAD installed, and legacy BDP-2 consumers have an option to retrofit to the new device for an MSRP of $500. IAD upgrades will be managed at the Bryston factory until dealers and international distributors have been trained to properly install the new module.  

 

“There were several important factors that led us to develop the IAD,” reported Bryston VP James Tanner. “We were confident that by eliminating three connection points, hand selecting and testing all of the components and shifting to our meticulous in-house manufacturing that we could improve transient capability while enhancing low resolution detail,” Tanner added. The Bryston IAD is also directly powered by the BDP-2’s premium quality linear power supply rather than by a power source shared with the motherboard.  

 

Another significant benefit of the Bryston IAD has been the capacity to free BDP-2 production from the constraints of third-party supplied devices. Premium quality sound cards are challenging to source, and the IAD alleviates these supply chain concerns completely. The IAD will reduce backorders on the BDP-2, which has been an issue as sales have outpaced manufacturing since the introduction of the hand-assembled Bryston music players. Added Tanner, “At this level of quality we recognize that the IAD represents a relatively moderate advance in performance—however the manufacturing quality and consistency along with the sonic benefits make the IAD a clear winner for our customers.”

About Bryston:  Bryston (www.bryston.com) first opened for business in 1962 as a manufacturer of 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 has become legendary for their hand-built quality, superb performance and dependability under load in the home, professional and commercial markets. Bryston amplifiers 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 their electronic 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 150 dealers in North America and 60 countries worldwide.

  

FSP Announces World's First Notebook Adapter/USB 3.0 Hub

Nangang Expo Hall 4F, Booth #M1019

May 26, 2015 – Taoyuan, Taiwan – FSP, the performance power specialist, today announces the first multifunction notebook adapter featuring a convenient built-in USB 3.0 hub: the NB H series. World's First Multifunction Notebook Adapter / USB 3.0 Hub The NB H adds more convenience and usability to the world of notebook adapters. This full range (100~240V) adapter series includes built-in USB 3.0 ports to charge mobile devices and/or for increased laptop connectivity. This adapter is an excellent solution for popular ultrabooks and slim laptops that sacrifice USB ports for thinness. Maximized Convenience and Compatibility The NH B uses only one power adapter for both charging and USB functionality, though does not require to be plugged in to work as a USB 3.0 hub. The NB H also maximizes compatibility, including various plug adapters to fit virtually any notebook. Sleek Design and Portability The NH B is only about the size of a glasses case and features a blue LED indicator light; its compact size and removable DC jack make it portable as well as useful. Two Models The NB H series features two models: the NB H 110 with 3 USB 3.0 ports and 110W of total output, and the NB H 65 with 2 USB 3.0 ports and 65w total output. Availability and Pricing The NB H 65 and NB H 110 will reach stores in October 2015 for the suggested retail price of $54.99 and $69.99 respectively. For more product information, please visit: http://www.fsplifestyle.com/series.php?LID=1&SID=533 http://www.fsplifestyle.com/Home.php?LID=6

Gestigon provides gesture control solution for Audi at the CES ASIA

Press release – for immediate release
Lübeck, Germany, May 25th, 2015

gestigon provides gesture control solution for Audi at the CES ASIA  

gestigon is proud to announce that they provide the gesture control software solution used in Audi’s booth at the CES ASIA in Shanghai, running May 25-27, 2015. gestigon and Audi have been working together to develop and be able to demonstrate state-of-the-art gesture control solutions. The first result of this cooperation is to, initially, provide an unique user experience for the rear seat passengers of Audi’s luxury car models enabling the user an easy, intuitive and relaxing way to interact with the multimedia device in front of them.

Gesture control automotive solutions have been shown at different conferences and events during the last years but often lacked a convincing user experience. Audi and gestigon believe that they have now solved a lot of challenges of the technology as well as the user interfaces and have created an appealing solution that could tease additional use cases and reach automotive’ market readiness soon. In this cooperation gestigon delivers the skeleton tracking software; Audi and other Audi partners provide the necessary hardware, integration, and user interface.

Moritz von Grotthuss, CEO of gestigon, says, “we are excited to have won AUDI AG as a partner to develop gesture control solutions for automotive. The application for the rear passengers is a first, appealing step into a multitude of use cases based on ‘active control’ to enable new, innovative and easy-to-use functionalities. With Audi’s unique positioning as one of the leading global premium manufacturers we have found a partner that shares our vision and excitement in regard of skeleton tracking- and gesture control for automotive in their broadest sense.”

Michael Schlittenbauer, Developer at AUDI AG confirms, „gestigon was able to provide a customized software solution for our targeted use case in the rear of the cabin. We are working on a number of concepts to integrate gesture control into our models and are looking forward to continue to explore the technology as well as use cases to enable a unique driving experience to our customers.”

About gestigon: 

gestigon develops software solutions for skeleton tracking and gesture control on the basis of 3D depth data for the markets automotive and consumer electronics. The unique selling propositions of the software, especially the low latency (run time), the low requirements on the used processors including embedded systems, being sensor-agnostic as well as the high flexibility related to the tracked topologies and the experience with automotive grade software development processes, have positioned the company as global market leader for automotive/interior gesture-, pose- and behavior tracking solutions. gestigon has its headquarter in Lübeck/Germany and a business development office in Sunnyvale/USA.

Amped Wireless Now Shipping the Fastest, Most Powerful Wi-Fi Range Extender Available with up to 12,000 sq ft of Wi-Fi Coverage

Amped Wireless Now Shipping the Fastest, Most Powerful Wi-Fi Range Extender Available with up to 12,000 sq ft of Wi-Fi Coverage

Introducing the RE1750A High Power AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender

May 20th, 2015 - Chino Hills, CA – Amped Wireless, the leading manufacturer of high power, long range wireless solutions for the home and office, is now shipping the industry’s most powerful range extender that delivers up to 12,000 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage and up to 1750Mbps of combined Wi-Fi speed. The RE1750A is a high power range extender designed for large homes and offices with multiple users and a need for more Wi-Fi coverage.

Designed for the most demanding networks, the High Power AC1750 Wi-Fi Range Extender features more power than any other Extender. It is equipped with 12 high power amplifiers (up to 800mW of output power), three high gain, dual band antennas and the latest AC1750 Wi-Fi technology. This enables the RE1750A to deliver simultaneous speeds up to 450Mbps on the 2.4GHz frequency and up to 1300 Mbps on the 5GHz frequency. The RE1750A is also built with five gigabit wired ports and one USB 2.0 storage port. USB support allows for file sharing within the local network and gigabit ports allow for easy, blazing-fast wired network connections of up to 5 devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles and more.

The class-leading power and ultra-fast speeds afforded by the RE1750A makes streaming high definition and 4K content to multiple devices, simultaneously, seamless in large households and businesses. It is the ideal range extender for networks with multiple devices connecting at once.

“The introduction of the RE1750A marks a new milestone for Amped Wireless,” said Lacey Limbrick, Brand/Marketing Manager at Amped Wireless. “This range extender is the first of its kind. Providing up to 12,000 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage is something we’re very proud of. Our company leads the market in premium High Power Range Extenders, so we are very pleased to broaden our Extender line even further and offer this powerful solution to our customers.”

All Amped Wireless products include the Wi-Fi Analytics Tool App, free for Android and Windows devices to help users analyze and optimize their networks. The app allows users to fine tune their network to get the maximum speed and coverage from their device. All Amped products are also backed by industry leading, U.S. based, in-house Elite Technical Support provided by Amped Concierges. The Elite Support team is ready for calls, emails, and chats seven days a week.

The RE1750A is available for order now on ampedwireless.com and at major brick and mortar locations in the weeks to come. To learn more about this Range Extender and to place orders, visit http://www.ampedwireless.com/products/re1750a.html.

WhyReboot Brings Premium Network Solutions to HTSA

WhyReboot Brings Premium Network Solutions to HTSA

 

HTSA integrators and specialty retailers will appreciate the performance, security and reliability of individually tailored commercial-grade network solutions

 

Miami, FL May 13, 2015 – WhyReboot (www.whyreboot.com), a leader in commercial-grade networks for advanced connected environments, has announced that they have joined HTSA (Home Technology Specialists of America) as a member vendor. WhyReboot will supply HTSA integrators with the finest, most robust secure networking solutions for the connected home environment.

 

Since 2010, WhyReboot has been designing network systems tailored to custom integrators. Each system is optimized based on the specific needs of the user’s environment, and WhyReboot employs best practices to maximize security—only allowing access via secure encryption. Unlike any competitor, WhyReboot also provides a full year of white glove customer support for their technology, giving integrators premium service and implementing configuration changes to maximize onsite efficiency, enhance their relationships with clients and grow their businesses.

 

“Our goal with each project is to create the most reliable and durable network solution that will over-deliver for the integrator while keeping a very low cost of ownership for the end user,” explained WhyReboot president Bjørn Jensen. “Our systems are built using the finest hand-selected components, ensuring 24/7 reliability, security, performance and value. We are excited to bring our advanced networking solutions to the HTSA community, and we appreciate their focus on training and education initiatives. WhyReboot is proud to be aligned with this fine organization,” concluded Jensen.

 

“The network is the heart of the connected home; there is no questioning the importance of being able to design, install and service a robust home network solution,” said HTSA Managing Director, Bob Hana. “With WhyReboot, our members will be given the tools needed to truly succeed at owning the network. We are thrilled to welcome WhyReboot to our list of premium HTSA Vendor Members as this partnership provides the foundation for a long and mutually beneficial relationship.”

About WhyReboot: WhyReboot specializes in creating commercial-grade networks that address the demands of advanced control and automation technologies in connected residential, commercial and luxury marine environments. WhyReboot systems are highly scalable and customized for each application using the finest components available.www.whyreboot.com

About Home Technology Specialists of America: Home Technology Specialists of America (HTSA) is a national association of specialty retailers and custom integrators, who design, specify and install premier residential and commercial electronic systems. Ranging from home automation and media rooms to lighting control systems and multi-room audio, today’s digital living environments demand a specialist who helps connect the products in the home, at work or on the go, simply and correctly, while maximizing their performance. Join the conversation on Twitter or becoming a fan on Facebook.

RuggON Announces New Broadwell-Powered Rextorm 10.1” Rugged Tablets

RuggON Announces New Broadwell-Powered Rextorm 10.1” Rugged Tablets with Enhanced Battery Life and Graphics Capability

New Rextorm Tablets will last longer in the field and offer comprehensive vehicle and office docking solutions

May 13, 2015, Taipei, Taiwan – RuggON, the rugged mobile specialist, announces a new version of its Rextorm Rugged Tablets, PX-501B, powered by Intel’s latest 5th Generation Core™ i5 processors(5350U) with Intel Turbo Boost Technology up to 2.9GHz, Intel vPro Technology, and integrated Intel® HD Graphics 6000(up to 1GHz.) Besides better multi-tasking and graphics capability this processor update means up to 30% better battery life for the new 10.1” Rextorm PX-501B tablet with 6.5 hours using the regular battery or 13 hours using the extended life battery. This latest Rextorm PX-501B tablet will be released in conjunction with a line of Rextorm peripherals including full featured vehicle and office docking solutions. Enhanced Battery Life Leveraging Intel’s latest 5th generation Broadwell processors, RuggON’s Rextorm tablets, PX-501B will feature enhanced battery life, with up to 6.5 hours with the regular battery and 13 hours of service in the field using the extended battery. With a hot swappable battery design, the new Broadwell series of Rextorm tablets offers long, extendable service life in the field. Better Graphics Performance The new Broadwell powered Rextorm Tablets,PX-501B, will feature a more powerful Intel® HD Graphics 6000 GPU powering its 1000nit optically bonded display for enhanced graphics capability and faster performance. That means better mapping, video processing and visualization performance in the field for GIS, law enforcement, utility workers and more. Smooth Upgrade With design continuity, the new Broadwell powered Rextorm tablets,PX-501B, will use the same housing as previous Rextorm tablets, so accessories such as Barcode/Magnetic Stripe readers or batteries are fully inter-compatible. Rugged Vehicle Docking The Broadwell Series Rextorm tablets offer the latest VD04 Vehicle Docking solution from RuggON, an IP54 rated water and shock resistant vehicle mounting solution that can stand up to the abuse of off-road driving. An automotive power supply with built-in fuse supports 9-32V power and ignition on/off switching. CANbus and DI/DO connectivity means strong integration with in-vehicle sensors and systems allowing for vehicle monitoring and control. Rich I/O connectivity is provided through four USB ports, two RS232 Serial ports, as well as VGA, HDMI and Ethernet ports and a dual antenna pass-through design ensures strong WiFi/GPS/WWAN reception. Office Dock An office dock allows for desktop usage of the RuggON Tablet and easy attachment to an external screen and keyboard. 4 USB ports for peripherals as well as VGA, HDMI and Gigabit Ethernet ports are available. Availability The new Rextorm tablets, Docking solutions, and a dual battery charger accessory will be on display at Computex 2015. A Rextorm-controlled UAV demonstration will be used to show the capability of the Broadwell-powered RuggON tablet. The PX-501B Broadwell based Rextorm will be available for order from distributors May 2015 at a base RRP of $2,799. Product Order Information: http://www.ruggon.com/en/index.php#support SKU ID Description PX-501B4HBXR-3EXW8IMLX1 PX-501B with Intel 5th Generation Core™ i5 processors(i5-5350U) PX-501A4HRXR-3EXW8IMLX1 PX-501 with Intel 4th Generation Core™ i5 processors(i4-4300U) About RuggON RuggON stands alone as the dedicated rugged tablet specialist. Founded with the mission to improve productivity of ruggedized tablets for demanding professionals working in extreme environments, RuggON's engineering & design team has over a decade of rugged experience. RuggON’s focus means better products for its customers and its dedicated engineers deliver intuitive and user-friendly designs by listening to the needs of users.

Audio-Technica is Now Shipping its AT-LP60 Turntable in Limited Edition Colors

Audio-Technica is Now Shipping its AT-LP60 Turntable in Limited Edition Colors

 

STOW, OH, May 12, 2015 - Audio-Technica is now shipping its AT-LP60 Fully Automatic Stereo Turntable System in striking blue (AT-LP60BL) and red finishes (AT-LP60RD), available exclusively at Amazon.com. Also available in silver and black, the AT-LP60 is a complete turntable and cartridge package that makes it easy to enjoy listening to records.

Crystal Griffith, Audio-Technica Consumer Marketing Manager, noted, "Our AT-LP60 is one of the most popular affordable high-quality turntables on the market, and with its blue and red color options it brings even more style and fun to vinyl listening."

The AT-LP60 features completely automatic operation - just push the play button and the turntable does the rest - and a 33-1/3 and 45 RPM speed selector to play vinyl formats from LP albums to 12-inch and 7-inch singles. The turntable is designed to deliver outstanding sound, with a heavy-duty precision cast aluminum platter, a high-quality Dual Magnet TM stereo cartridge with replaceable stylus, and a pickup arm with soft damping control.

Its built-in switchable phono preamp enables it to be used with a wide variety of music and home entertainment systems, powered speakers, and A/V receivers that do not include a dedicated phono input. The AT-LP60 comes with a removable dust cover, RCA output cables and 3.5 mm-to-RCA adapter cables and is so easy to set up it's ready to play in minutes right out of the box.

The Audio-Technica AT-LP60 Fully Automatic Turntable System in limited edition blue and red finishes is available exclusively at Amazon.com at a suggested retail price of US$129.95. The AT-LP60 (silver and black) is also available from retailers, online sellers and www.shopaudiotechnica.com at US$119.95 suggested retail.

 

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping 9-Inch Restyle Dash System for Jeep Wrangler

Alpine Electronics Now Shipping 9-Inch Restyle Dash System for Jeep Wrangler
X009-WRA is showcased in a custom Jeep Wrangler from Starwood Motors

Torrance, Calif. (May 6, 2015) – Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. has once again added to its lineup of 9-inch Restyle dash systems with the arrival of the X009-WRA for select 2011-up Jeep Wranglers.  The X009-WRA is showcased in a custom Jeep Wrangler demo vehicle made by Starwood Motors.

X009-WRA and iDatalink® Maestro Module
The X009-WRA is a multi-function system with audio, video, navigation and Bluetooth® wireless technology, all controlled through a distinctive 9-inch WVGA touch screen.  The X009-WRA is compatible with 2011-up Jeep Wranglers and comes with a dash kit and back-lit hard keys that match the Wrangler’s factory dash for an integrated look and fit.  The dash kit comes in a piano black gloss with silver side accents and transitions to a satin black finish around the vents.  The X009-WRA is the eighth Restyle 9-inch dash system from Alpine; other versions of the X009 are available for popular full size trucks and SUVs.

The X009-WRA retains several factory features through the included iDatalink® Maestro module used with the supplied Jeep specific T-harness.  Retained Jeep factory features include steering wheel controls, premium audio system and media player controls, Bluetooth© hands free calling and factory parking sensor integration.  Customized vehicle data like tire pressure, battery voltage and check engine codes can be viewed on the screen.  

Entertainment, Information and Customizable Features
Audio sources on the X009-WRA include HD Radio™ digital programming, “Made for iPod and iPhone” music control, audio streaming, Pandora® control from smartphones, and SiriusXM compatibility (requires SXV300 Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit and subscription, sold separately).  HDMI-enabled devices can be connected to the X009-WRA (separate adapters may be required).  The navigation system delivers turn-by-turn driving directions, 3D maps, and free HERE lifetime traffic service.  Bluetooth® wireless technology is built-in for hands-free calling and phone battery level and cellular signal level icons are conveniently displayed on the X009-WRA screen.  Sound settings for the Wrangler can be customized through the free Alpine TuneIt App for smartphones.  The “My Favorites” feature lets two users customize quick-access screens with up to 80 shortcuts to their most used features like audio sources, navigation commands and phone settings.  The X009-WRA is compatible with Alpine’s front and rear view camera systems (sold separately) and overlays a visual parking guide onto the rear view image projected on the screen.

Jeep Wrangler Demo Vehicle
Alpine commissioned a customized 2014 Jeep Wrangler demo vehicle to show off the X009-WRA.  The Wrangler was built by Starwood Motors of Dallas and features a rugged California coast theme.  The 1,000 watt Alpine sound system is powered by a PDX-F4 4-channel amplifier and PDX-M6 mono amplifier and delivered through three pairs of Alpine SPR-60C 6.5-inch component speakers and two SWR-T12 12-inch subwoofers.  An HCE-C252RD rear view camera system and HCE-C212F front view camera system aid with parking and tricky driving situations.  The entire system is supported by a DC Power Engineering 240 amp high power alternator, Painless wiring for accessory and voltage distribution, and Stinger wire and installation products.

To achieve the rugged California coast look, the Wrangler’s body, hardtop and fenders received Starwood’s signature Kevlar finish in Ferrari Nart Blue. Stripes in Porsche GT Silver were added to the hood to highlight the Alpine and Starwood logos. Performance upgrades include a 4.5-inch Rubicon Express Extreme Duty long arm suspension system, Bilstein shocks and a Currie anti-rock sway bar. Exterior additions include Road Armor stealth bumpers for the front and rear (with tire carrier), Smittybilt steel fender flares, RSE Rock Slider power side armor and steps, a Lifted off-road heat reduction hood and an AEV JK roof rack.  The Pro Comp Explorer LED lighting system consists of multiple lights (one 50-inch, three pairs of 2x2-inch and one 10-inch).  Other accessories include grab handles, headlight and tail light guards, a Mopar fuel door and locking lug nuts.

The Wrangler is ready for any adventure with Pro Comp R20 off-road tires (37x12.5) mounted to Pro Comp Alloy Series 5183 wheels (20x9.5) in satin black with a machined lip. A custom surfboard/wakeboard/wakesurf rack with a woodgrain finish gives a nod to the vintage “woodie” trucks popular with surfers in the ‘60s. For ultimate comfort, the seats are outfitted in Bentley Speed black Napa leather with silver contrast stitching, inverted piping and a center stripe.

“After we launched the X009 series in 2014, Jeep fans made it known they wanted their own solution,” said Steve Crawford, vice president and general manager, aftermarket business unit, Alpine Electronics of America, Inc.  “We’re thrilled to offer this large screen upgrade for the Wrangler, and we thank Starwood Motors for spotlighting it in such a unique vehicle.”

Availability
The X009-WRA is available now for $3,500 SRI, visit www.alpine-usa.com for a store locator.  The Jeep Wrangler demo vehicle will be used at Alpine consumer and retailer events throughout 2015.

Other X009 systems available are the: X009-FD2 for select 2013-2014 Ford F-150 trucks with the MyFord® 4.2-inch factory screen ($3,500 SRI); X009-FD1, for select 2009-2014 Ford F-150 trucks with the base radio system ($3,000 SRI); X009-GM, for lower dash radio styles on select 2007-2013 GM trucks and 2007-2014 GM SUVs ($3,000 SRI); X009-GM2, for upper dash radio styles on select 2007-2013 GM trucks ($3,400 SRI); X009-RAM, for select 2013-up Ram trucks ($3,400 SRI); X009-TND, for 2007-2013 Toyota Tundra trucks ($3,300 SRI); and the X009U for custom installations ($2,700).

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